RT Article
T1 The Easter Ban in the Merovingian Kingdoms: Ideal and Reality
JF Medieval encounters
VO 27
IS 3
SP 241
OP 265
A1 Halfond, Gregory I.
LA English
PB Brill
YR 2021
UL https://ixtheo.de/Record/1771744871
AB Abstract In mid-sixth-century Gaul, two episcopal councils issued canons, in 538 and 581/3, respectively, attempting to prohibit interaction between Jews and Christians between Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday. The canons suggested that Jews, through their obstinate impiety, posed a threat to their Christian neighbors, particularly during that festal season associated with proselytization. While there is not corroborating evidence that the Merovingian-era Easter ban ever was put into effect, it should be understood not simply as an expression of Christian triumphalism, but rather as a sincere effort by the Gallo-Frankish bishops to protect their flocks from the “unbelieving Jews.” In an unintended consequence, the ban assigned far greater power and influence to Gallic Jews than they actually enjoyed.
K1 Easter Passover
K1 Synods
K1 Councils
K1 Canon Law
K1 Merovingian Gaul
DO 10.1163/15700674-12340104