Legal Definitions - matima

The term matima is a historical legal term that refers to a godmother.

In historical contexts, a matima was a woman who sponsored a child at a baptism and often assumed a significant spiritual guardianship role, promising to assist in the child's religious upbringing and moral development. This role carried both ecclesiastical and, at times, legal implications regarding the child's welfare and spiritual education.

• Example 1: In a 17th-century parish register from a European village, an entry for a baptism might read: "Baptized on May 10, 1685, Anna, daughter of Thomas and Mary. Her matima was Eleanor, wife of John."

  Explanation: This example illustrates the formal designation of Eleanor as Anna's godmother within a church record. The use of "matima" here highlights her recognized role in the baptismal ceremony and her spiritual responsibility towards Anna, as recorded in a document that would have held legal and social weight at the time.

• Example 2: A will drafted in the late 18th century might contain a clause stating: "I bequeath ten shillings to my godchild, William, to be held in trust by his matima, Martha, until he reaches the age of eighteen years."

  Explanation: Here, Martha is identified as William's godmother, or "matima," and is entrusted with a specific legal duty—managing an inheritance on his behalf. This demonstrates how the role of a matima could extend beyond spiritual duties to include practical and financial guardianship, as recognized in a legal document like a will.

• Example 3: During a historical dispute over a child's religious education following the death of both parents, a local court might have consulted the individual designated as the child's matima regarding the appropriate upbringing.

  Explanation: In this scenario, the court would acknowledge the matima's established role as the child's godmother, recognizing her historical and customary responsibility for the child's spiritual and moral guidance. Her input would be considered significant due to her formal relationship established at baptism, which carried legal and social weight in matters concerning the child's welfare.