rettarholdum

rettarholdum is a term that appears in historical Icelandic sagas and legal texts, often referring to a group or gathering of people who have a shared interest in legal matters or are involved in a legal process. It can denote a council, a court, or a general assembly where laws are discussed, disputes are settled, or decisions are made. The specific context of the saga or legal document will usually clarify the precise nature of the rettarholdum.

These gatherings were fundamental to the functioning of Icelandic society during the Commonwealth period. They were the venues where legal disputes were brought and resolved according to established laws and customs. The participants in a rettarholdum could include chieftains, freeholders, and other members of the community who held legal rights and responsibilities. The proceedings were typically public, emphasizing transparency and community involvement in the administration of justice.

The concept of rettarholdum highlights the importance of collective decision-making and legal consensus in early Icelandic governance. It was through these assemblies that laws were upheld, social order was maintained, and the rights of individuals were protected. The term itself reflects a structured and organized approach to communal legal affairs, integral to the unique political and social system of medieval Iceland.