Bible Encyclopedias
Shire Mote

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

Search for…

Enter query below:

or

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

Prev Entry
Shipwreck

Next Entry
Shirer, John Wesley

Resource Toolbox

Print Article

the highest of the three motes, or courts among the Saxons, was held twice a year, and was composed of the freeholders. Hearing both civil and ecclesiastical causes, the shire mote was presided over by an ealdorman and a bishop, who were not the absolute judges, being present chiefly to keep order and advise. Cases were decided by the majority of votes. See Hill, English Monastism, p.199.