Legal Definitions - lex Theodosiana

Definition: Lex Theodosiana is a Latin term that refers to the Theodosian Code, a compilation of Roman laws issued by Emperor Theodosius II in AD 438.

The Theodosian Code was a collection of laws that had been passed by previous Roman emperors, dating back to the reign of Constantine the Great in the early 4th century. The code covered a wide range of topics, including criminal law, civil law, and religious law.

One example of a law included in the Theodosian Code is the prohibition of certain pagan religious practices. This law stated that anyone who engaged in pagan rituals or sacrifices would be punished by death or confiscation of their property.

Another example is a law that regulated the sale of slaves. This law required that slaves be sold in public markets and that their prices be set by the government.

These examples illustrate how the Theodosian Code was a comprehensive collection of laws that governed many aspects of Roman life. It was an important legal document that helped to shape the legal system of the Roman Empire.