The word "indiction" (in-dik-shuhn) refers to a period of time used in ancient Rome for tax and census purposes. Its spelling can be confusing, as the "c" is pronounced as an "s," the "ti" combination is pronounced as "sh," and the final syllable is pronounced with a short "uh" sound. This spelling can be attributed to the word's Latin roots, where the "c" was pronounced as an "s," and the "ti" combination was pronounced as "tsee." Despite its unusual spelling, "indiction" remains an important term in historical and financial contexts.
Indiction is a noun that refers to a system for reckoning time, particularly in ancient Rome. It was a fifteen-year cycle used for determining the years for taxation and other administrative purposes. The origin of the term can be traced back to the Latin word "indictio," which means 'declaration' or 'announcing.'
In the Roman calendar, an indiction referred to a specific year within the cycle. The count began in AD 312 under Emperor Constantine the Great and was primarily used to determine the taxable population and revenue for the Roman state. The system was designed to ensure fairness and efficiency in tax collection and other administrative affairs throughout the empire.
During an indiction year, the Roman census was conducted, which involved counting the people, assessing property, and determining the tax liabilities. Additionally, important events, such as imperial coronations and the publication of laws, were often scheduled according to the indiction cycle.
In modern times, the term indiction is primarily used in historical and scholarly contexts to discuss the Roman tax system and how it affected the administrative, economic, and social aspects of the Roman Empire. It serves as a reminder of the intricate systems and practices employed by ancient civilizations to govern and manage their affairs.
The reckoning by cycles or periods of 15 years, introduced by Constantine, A. D. 312, in connection with the payment of tribute-much used in the ecclesiastical chronology of the middle ages.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "indiction" comes from the Latin word "indictio", which means "declaration". It originates from the verb "indicare", meaning "to announce" or "to declare". In ancient Rome, an indiction was a method used to count years for taxation and administrative purposes. It was also used to mark the reign of an emperor. The indiction system was established by Emperor Constantine I in the 4th century AD and involved a 15-year cycle. Over time, the term "indiction" broadened in usage to refer to any established cycle or term for reckoning dates or events.