kümnendkuhje

Kümnendkuhje is an Estonian term that translates to "tenth cow" and refers to a historical practice within Estonian peasant society. This practice was part of a communal system of land use and resource management, particularly prevalent before the widespread adoption of private land ownership.

Under the kümnendkuhje system, a village or a group of households would collectively own a certain number of cows, often designated as the "tenth cow." This cow's produce, such as milk and butter, was not for the individual owner but was set aside for communal use. The specific purpose of these communal resources varied but typically supported those in need within the community, such as the elderly, widows, orphans, or those experiencing hardship. It could also contribute to a village fund for shared expenses or improvements.

The system served as a form of social welfare and mutual aid, fostering a strong sense of community responsibility and solidarity. It ensured that even the most vulnerable members of society had access to essential resources, contributing to the overall stability and resilience of the village. The practice gradually declined with changes in agricultural practices, land ownership laws, and the broader socio-economic transformations in Estonia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.