What is the principle of gathering intent from the instrument as a whole called?

The principle of gathering intent from the instrument as a whole is known as the Four Corners Rule. This rule is based on the idea that when interpreting a legal document, such as a contract or deed, one should consider the text within its entirety rather than focusing on isolated sections or clauses. The purpose is to derive the true intent of the parties involved by analyzing the document as a complete entity.

By applying the Four Corners Rule, interpreters aim to find a consistent and coherent meaning in the document that accurately reflects the intentions of the parties at the time of its execution. This approach helps to avoid misinterpretation that could arise from taking phrases or sentences out of context, thereby ensuring that the original purpose and agreement are preserved.

In contrast, other options such as the Preamble Rule focus specifically on the introductory section of a document to decipher intent, while Grammatical Interpretation concentrates on the language and grammar used within the text. The Whole Agreement Principle, while similar in concept, typically emphasizes the completeness of the contract or agreement without delving into the nuance of intent extracted from the entire text.