precedent:

an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances

precedent:

an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances

(Noun)

Example Sentences:

Ramayana:  Many of the defining incidents in the Ramayana have become precedents on which Indian society has based its behaviour for millennia.

Mahabharata:  While discussing whether Draupadi’s marrying five husbands was appropriate, Vyasadeva stressed that such a relationship, although not common, had some precedents in history.

Bhagavad-gita:  When Krishna recommended renunciation in action, instead of renunciation of action, he quoted precedents of illustrious kings like Janaka.