Gratian's Decretum

Gratian's Decretum, compiled in the 12th century, is a foundational work in canon law, the system of ecclesiastical law governing the Catholic Church. It organizes and reconciles various church laws and teachings from scripture, councils, and the writings of church fathers. By systematically categorizing these laws, Gratian aimed to provide clarity and guidance for legal disputes within the church. His work established a framework for the Church's legal system that influenced later church law and the development of legal thought in Europe, marking a significant step in the evolution of Western legal traditions.