Define: Ligius

In history and law, the term “liege” is used to refer to a person who is bound to another through a solemn relationship, such as a subject to a king or queen. This relationship is based on loyalty and service, and the person who is bound is known as a “liege.” A liege is someone who owes allegiance and service to a feudal lord or monarch. “Liege homage” is the act of pledging loyalty and services by one sovereign to another. In Scottish law, “liege poustie” is a term that describes the lawful power of a person to dispose of their property while in good health. This power is distinct from “deathbed power,” which is not considered lawful.

A solemn relationship exists between two individuals, such as a subject and a sovereign, which is commonly referred to as “liege.” For instance, during medieval times, a knight would be considered a ligius to their lord, signifying their obligation to serve and remain loyal to them. This example demonstrates how the knight was bound to their lord, owing them allegiance and service, and was expected to remain faithful. Other related terms include “Liege,” which refers to someone entitled to feudal allegiance and service, “Liege homage,” which involves pledges of loyalty and services paid by one sovereign to another, “Liege man,” which refers to a vassal bound to feudal allegiance, “Liege poustie,” which refers to the lawful power of one in good health to dispose of heritable property, and “Liege lord,” which refers to a feudal lord entitled to allegiance and service, such as a sovereign or superior lord.

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This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.