how did church support the perpetuation of the feudal system
The church played a significant role in supporting the perpetuation of the feudal system in several ways:
1. Justification through religious doctrine: The church propagated the idea that the feudal system was ordained by God. They claimed that just as God had established a hierarchical order in heaven, he had also established a similar order on earth. By promoting this religious doctrine, the church legitimized the feudal system and discouraged any opposition to it.
2. Role of the church in governance: The church held considerable power and influence during the feudal era. Bishops and abbots often held important administrative positions, and many clergymen served as advisors to the feudal lords. This close relationship between the church and the ruling class allowed the church to reinforce and maintain the feudal system.
3. Control over land and resources: The church owned vast amounts of land, making it one of the largest landowners during the feudal period. They used their land to accumulate wealth and exert influence over the feudal lords. By controlling land and resources, the church directly benefited from the feudal system.
4. Doctrine of divine right of kings: The church supported the idea that kings and feudal lords had a divine right to rule. They argued that the king's authority was sanctioned by God, and therefore, it was the duty of the people to obey and support their rulers. This doctrine further reinforced the feudal hierarchy and discouraged any challenges to the system.
5. Control over education and literacy: During the feudal era, the church was responsible for education and literacy. Monasteries served as centers of learning, and the clergy was responsible for educating the nobility and other members of the feudal society. By controlling education, the church shaped the mindset of the population, promoting obedience and acceptance of the feudal system.
Overall, the church's support for the feudal system was based on religious doctrines, direct involvement in governance, land ownership, control over education, and the dissemination of the divine right of kings doctrine.