In Old Irish law, a fine was imposed on a murderer as a form of compensation to the victim's family. This fine was known as "eric," and it was a way to seek justice and resolution for the crime committed. One interesting aspect of this practice was that the amount of the eric fine was determined by the victim's social status and the circumstances surrounding the crime. One of the key components of the eric fine was the naming of the murderer. In Old Irish law, the name given to a boy who committed a fineable offense was known as a "faughail." This name was used to identify the individual responsible for the crime and to hold them accountable for their actions. By giving the murderer a specific name, it emphasized the personal responsibility and consequences of their actions. The process of determining the eric fine and naming the murderer was a complex and nuanced one. It involved a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the crime, as well as a consideration of the victim's social status and the impact of the crime on their family. Once the eric fine was determined, it was expected that the murderer would pay the compensation to the victim's family as a way to seek forgiveness and closure. The naming of the murderer was not only a legal formality but also a way to ensure that justice was served. By giving the boy a specific name, it made it clear that they were responsible for their actions and that they would be held accountable for their crime. This practice helped to maintain order and harmony within the community, as it emphasized the importance of personal responsibility and restitution for wrongdoing. In conclusion, the naming of the murderer in Old Irish law was a crucial aspect of seeking justice and resolution for crimes committed. By giving the boy a specific name and determining the eric fine, it ensured that the victim's family received compensation for their loss and that the perpetrator faced the consequences of their actions. This practice helped to uphold the principles of justice and accountability within the community.

Sign Up