Legal Definitions - free alms

Definition: Free alms, also known as frankalmoin, is a type of spiritual tenure in which a religious institution holds land with the general duty to pray for the donor. This differs from the tenure by divine service, which requires specific church services.

Example: In medieval times, a wealthy landowner might donate land to a monastery or church in exchange for free alms. The religious institution would then be responsible for praying for the landowner's soul, but would not be required to perform specific services like a certain number of masses or alms distributions.

This example illustrates how free alms was a way for landowners to ensure their spiritual well-being while also benefiting religious institutions.