yorliq

Yorliq is a term historically used in Turkic and Mongol contexts, particularly within the Golden Horde and its successor states. It generally refers to a royal decree, an official document, or a proclamation issued by a ruler. These documents often carried significant legal and administrative weight, outlining laws, appointments, land grants, or other important state matters. The term itself is of Turkic origin, related to words meaning "order" or "command."

Yorliqs served as a primary means of communication and governance for the ruling elite. They were often inscribed on parchment or paper and could be disseminated throughout the territory to inform officials and the general populace of the ruler's will. The content of a yorliq could vary widely, from religious edicts to the regulation of trade and taxation. Studying yorliqs provides valuable insights into the political, social, and economic structures of these historical societies. The practice of issuing yorliqs persisted for centuries, evolving with the changing political landscape of the Eurasian steppe.