Grith

/ɡrɪθ/ noun

Definition

An Old English term for peace, safety, or a sanctuary; a protected space granted by a ruler or religious authority.

Etymology

From Old English 'grið,' related to Old Norse 'grið,' meaning peace or truce. The concept evolved to mean a physical sanctuary or zone of protection.

Kelly Says

Medieval grith was like an ancient 'no-fly zone'—a criminal could be granted grith (protection) on church grounds, making it a literal life-saving legal concept in Anglo-Saxon England.

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