SENATUS CONSULTUM Meaning and
Definition
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Senatus consultum is a Latin term that refers to a legislative instrument or an official decree issued by the ancient Roman Senate. It holds significant historical and legal value within the Roman legal system. "Senatus" translates to "Senate" in English, while "consultum" means "decree" or "consultation."
A senatus consultum represents a formal resolution or decision made by the Senate and is considered a source of law in Roman jurisprudence. It was used during the Roman Republic (509–27 BC) and the Roman Empire (27 BC–476 AD) to address various matters, such as public policies, questions of governance, and legal issues. Senators would discuss and deliberate on the proposed senatus consultum before reaching a decision.
The authority of a senatus consultum varied depending on the political climate and the power balance between the Senate and the emperor. During the republic, these decrees held considerable influence and carried the force of law. However, as the Roman Empire transitioned from a republic to an autocracy, the emperor's authority often superseded that of the Senate, reducing the practical significance of senatus consulta.
In modern terms, a senatus consultum can be understood as a piece of legislation passed by the Roman Senate. It played a crucial role in shaping the course of Roman governance and law, and studying these decrees provides valuable insights into the political and legal systems of ancient Rome.
Etymology of SENATUS CONSULTUM
The word "senatus consultum" is a Latin phrase that translates to "senatorial decree" or "decision of the Senate" in English.
The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. Senatus: This Latin word refers to the Senate, which was the highest deliberative assembly in ancient Rome. The word is derived from the root senex, which means "old" or "elder". Therefore, senatus can be understood as "assembly of elders".
2. Consultum: This Latin word means "an opinion" or "a formal decision". It is derived from the verb consulere, which means "to consult" or "to deliberate".
Hence, when combined, "senatus consultum" refers to an official decision or decree made by the Roman Senate.
