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Simple English definitions for legal terms
hasta
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A quick definition of hasta:
Term: HASTA
Definition: Hasta is a Latin word that means "spear". In Roman law, it was used to indicate a sale by auction. They would place a spear into the ground to show that the item was up for sale. The phrase "hasta subicere" meant to put something up for sale at an auction. In history, hasta was also used as a symbol to invest a fief.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Hasta (has-tə) is a Latin word that means "spear".
There are two main historical uses of the term:
- Roman law: Hasta was used to refer to a sale by auction. This was indicated by a spear being placed into the ground. For example, the phrase "hasta subicere" meant to put something up for sale at auction.
- Investing a fief: Hasta was also used as a symbol to invest a fief. This means that a person was given the right to use and profit from a piece of land in exchange for loyalty and military service.
For example, in ancient Rome, if someone wanted to sell a piece of land, they would put a spear in the ground to indicate that it was up for auction. This was known as a "hasta sale".
In medieval Europe, a lord would use a hasta to invest a fief to a vassal. This meant that the vassal would become the lord's loyal servant and would be responsible for protecting the land and providing military service.