andþyngs

Andþyngs is an Old English term that translates to "weight" or "burden." It appears in various Anglo-Saxon texts, often referring to literal physical weight or metaphorical heaviness. For instance, it could describe the weight of a shield or the burden of sorrow. The word's etymology traces back to the Proto-Germanic *andþingaz, related to modern words like "thing" and "thingy," suggesting a connection to something tangible or presented.

In legal contexts, andþyngs could denote a burden of proof or a charge. It signifies something that must be carried or accounted for. The concept of andþyngs also extends to spiritual or moral burdens, such as guilt or sin. Understanding this term provides insight into the Anglo-Saxon worldview, where physical and abstract burdens were often conceptualized through a shared linguistic root. The usage of andþyngs highlights the multifaceted nature of burdens and their significance in everyday life and broader societal concerns during the Anglo-Saxon period.