What does legalism mean in a biblical context?

Legalism in a biblical context denotes any belief system that attempts to achieve justification or earn God's approval through personal obedience to the law or a set of rules. As noted in the sermon, legalism burdens individuals with the pressure to perform, suggesting that their standing before God hinges on their own actions. However, scripture teaches that true justification and salvation are found in faith alone, as emphasized by Paul in Galatians, who warns against returning to a yoke of slavery through legalistic practices that alienate believers from Christ.