The Decretum Gratiani, compiled by Italian monk Gratian around 1140, is a book of ecclesiastical authorities. Also known as Concordia discordantium canonum, meaning “the harmony of the discordant canons,” it analyses legal questions by comparing texts and drawing conclusions. Later scholars often relied on Gratian’s work, making it an authoritative text-book. The Decretum played a significant role in establishing canon law as a powerful system that stood alongside or above civil law.
The Decretum Gratiani, compiled by Gratian, an Italian monk, around 1140, is a collection of ecclesiastical authorities. It is also known as Concordia discordantium canonum, meaning “the harmony of the discordant canons”. Gratian analysed legal questions by comparing various texts and drawing conclusions, making his work the foundation for future canonist scholarship. The Decretum Gratiani became a respected text-book for canonists, who rarely looked beyond it, similar to how English lawyers revered Coke upon Littleton. This historical document, the Decretum Gratiani, is significant in showcasing the development of canon law and its impact on society.
The Decretum Gratiani, also known as the Concordia Discordantium Canonum or simply the Decretals of Gratian, is a collection of canon law texts compiled by Gratian, a 12th-century Italian jurist. It served as a fundamental legal text for the Catholic Church and played a significant role in shaping canon law.
The Decretum Gratiani aimed to harmonize and systematize the diverse and sometimes conflicting canon law sources that existed at the time. It sought to provide a comprehensive and authoritative guide for legal matters within the Catholic Church.
While the Decretum Gratiani was highly influential in its time, it has been superseded by subsequent collections of canon law, such as the Corpus Juris Canonici. However, it still holds historical and academic significance in the study of canon law.
The Decretum Gratiani covers a wide range of legal topics, including marriage, sacraments, ecclesiastical hierarchy, penance, heresy, and more. It addresses various aspects of church governance and the administration of justice within the Catholic Church.
While the Decretum Gratiani is no longer the primary source of canon law, it can still be referenced for historical and academic purposes. However, for contemporary legal matters within the Catholic Church, it is advisable to consult more recent collections of canon law.
The Decretum Gratiani served as a foundational text for subsequent collections of canon law, such as the Decretals of Gregory IX and the Corpus Juris Canonici. These later collections built upon and expanded the legal principles established in the Decretum Gratiani.
Yes, there have been debates and criticisms regarding certain aspects of the Decretum Gratiani. Some scholars have questioned its methodology, accuracy, and the inclusion of certain texts. However, it remains an important historical document in the development of canon law.
Gratian, also known as Gratianus, was an Italian jurist and monk who lived in the 12th century. He is credited with compiling the Decretum Gratiani, which became a significant legal text within the Catholic Church.
The Decretum Gratiani is available in various editions and translations, both in print and online. Academic institutions, libraries, and legal scholars often have copies or access to resources that contain the text of the Decretum Gratiani.
As a historical legal text, the Decretum Gratiani does not have direct legal authority in contemporary court cases. However, it may be referenced or cited in legal arguments to provide historical context or support certain legal interpretations within the Catholic Church.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
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