BRETHAIRE Meaning and
Definition
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Brethaire is a term used in the medieval context, specifically in early Irish and Scottish Gaelic law. It refers to a system of kinship and inheritance where the right to property and succession is determined based on descent through the male ancestral line. The term "brethaire" itself translates to "true kin" or "lawful kin."
Under the brethaire system, the male descendants of a specific male ancestor would have priority in terms of inheritance and succession, while female descendants and collateral lines would be excluded or have lesser rights. This patrilineal system ensured that property and title would remain within a designated lineage or clan, emphasizing the significance of an individual's paternal ancestry.
Brethaire was a key principle in shaping the social structure and laws of early medieval Gaelic societies. It established the hierarchical organization of society, with the chief or leader of the kinship group inheriting the highest position and the most extensive rights to land and resources. The system maintained stability and continuity within the clan, ensuring that the descendants of a particular male ancestor maintained their rights and privileges over generations.
Although the brethaire system was eventually modified and, in some cases, supplanted by other legal frameworks, it played a crucial role in shaping early Gaelic society and remains a significant aspect of its legal and cultural history.
Common Misspellings for BRETHAIRE
- vrethaire
- nrethaire
- hrethaire
- grethaire
- beethaire
- bdethaire
- bfethaire
- btethaire
- b5ethaire
- b4ethaire
- brwthaire
- brsthaire
- brdthaire
- brrthaire
- br4thaire
- br3thaire
- brerhaire
- brefhaire
- breghaire
- breyhaire
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