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LSDefine
Simple English definitions for legal terms
decimae
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A quick definition of decimae:
Decimae: A word from Latin meaning "ten". In the past, the Pope used to receive one-tenth of the profits earned by a church. Later, the English government took over this practice. It was called decimae. Sometimes, people paid the church in grain or wool instead of money.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Decimae is a term used in Ecclesiastical law. It refers to two things:
- The tenth part of the annual profits of a benefice that was originally payable to the Pope and later to the Crown. This was a controversial issue in England during the reign of Henry VIII, as the popish clergy wanted to keep this revenue going to the Pope, while the English parliament wanted to prevent it. Eventually, the revenue was annexed to the Crown.
- Tithes paid to the church, often in the form of grain or wool.
For example, if a farmer had a good harvest and earned $10,000, they would have to pay $1,000 as decimae to the church. This was a way for the church to earn money and support its activities.