Supplicatio was a form of request in ancient Rome that sought the emperor’s intervention in cases that were not already being heard in court or to reopen cases that were not typically subject to appeal. This method was employed when the regular court system was unlikely to deliver justice, when the petitioner held a high position, or when the opposing party was more influential. Additionally, supplicatio could also be used as a plea for clemency in cases of first-time offences. In historical context, supplicatio resembled a rejoinder in its nature.
Supplicatio is a term utilised in Roman law to describe a petition presented to the emperor for the resolution of a case that is not currently being heard in court. This recourse is typically employed when the ordinary court is unlikely to deliver justice or when the petitioner holds a position of high rank that precludes them from appearing before the ordinary court. Additionally, supplicatio can be employed to reopen a case that would not normally be subject to appeal. For instance, if an individual of lower status is facing a powerful opponent, they may utilise supplicatio to bring their case before the emperor. Similarly, individuals of high rank may opt for supplicatio instead of appearing before the ordinary court. Furthermore, supplicatio can also refer to a petition seeking pardon for a first offence. This means that if an individual commits a crime for the first time, they can request a pardon through supplicatio. Moreover, supplicatio can also denote a pleading akin to a rejoinder, serving as a response in a legal case.
Supplicatio is a religious ritual in ancient Rome where the citizens would gather to offer prayers and sacrifices to the gods in times of crisis or to express gratitude for a significant victory.
No, supplicatio is not practiced in its original form today. It was specific to ancient Roman culture and is no longer a part of modern religious practices.
Yes, there were certain protocols and rituals to be followed during supplicatio. These included the selection of appropriate deities, the offering of specific sacrifices, and the participation of the entire community.
The authority to call for a supplicatio rested with the Roman Senate or the Roman consul. They would decide when it was necessary to hold a supplicatio based on the prevailing circumstances.
Supplicatio was called in times of great crisis or significant victories. It could be in response to a military victory, a natural disaster, or to seek divine intervention during times of famine, plague, or other calamities.
There were no specific legal consequences for not participating in a supplicatio. However, it was considered a civic duty and failure to participate could lead to social ostracism or criticism.
There were no specific penalties for conducting a supplicatio incorrectly. However, it was important to follow the prescribed rituals and protocols to ensure the efficacy of the supplication and to maintain the favor of the gods.
Yes, supplicatio had political implications as it was often used as a means to rally public support or to demonstrate the authority and power of the Roman state. It was also a way for the ruling class to reinforce their control over the religious practices of the citizens.
Yes, there were variations of supplicatio in different regions of the Roman Empire. While the basic concept remained the same, the specific deities invoked and the rituals performed could vary based on local customs and beliefs.
While supplicatio itself is not practiced today, there are some modern religious practices that involve communal prayers and offerings to seek divine intervention or express gratitude. However, these practices vary across different cultures and religions.
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This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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