Yassa
The expression Jassa (Mongolian Их Засаг = "the great right"; Turkotarisch yasa = "right, law"), also Jossa or Jasa denotes a Mongolian code of law of the 13th / 14th century , which was first introduced by Genghis Khan and by his son Ögedei , according to another source , was recorded on birch bark by his literate, Tatar adoptive son Shigiqutuqu . The original has not been preserved, its content has only become known indirectly through historical records.
function
This work standardized the different laws of the steppe and formulated a collection of commandments and regulations that should regulate the coexistence in the newly founded Mongol Empire. It applied mainly to the Mongols themselves. The lower jurisdiction of the subjugated peoples was left untouched, at least in theory. Remarkably, the Jassa did not transform any valid legal norms of the Mongols. Rather, it also reflected the traditionally rigid moral concepts of Genghis Khan himself and his entourage.
Punish
Overall, draconian penalties were imposed for violating the law. The death penalty was envisaged in 13 of a total of 36 paragraphs, including adultery and water pollution. There was also the threat of mutilation and bastinades (blows on the soles of the feet). Even the smallest offenses were punished with the wearing of the shameful collar , very rarely only fines were provided. Only those who were caught in the act or who confessed to be guilty were found guilty; circumstantial evidence was not recognized.
General rules
On the other hand, the body of law also stipulated the striving for religious tolerance , regulated the (relatively high) status of women among the Mongols, behavior in war and even the consumption of alcohol. The Jassa also contained regulations that laid down very old traditions and customs, such as the slaughter of animals and washing in flowing waters.
Further development
The Jassa formed the basis of the Mongolian state organization for a long time. Only later was it superseded in some areas by Islamic law ( Sharia ).
literature
- Rüdiger Wolfrum : The law of Mongolia under Genghis Khan and his successors: The meaning of law in non-state societies . In: Constitution and law overseas (VRÜ) . Vol. 39, 2006, pp. 5-17.
Individual evidence
- ↑ The Great Ploetz , Freiburg i. Br. 2008, p. 677