ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the intertwining of the secular and religious norms and values of Gurage society which penetrate the realm of Gurage law. It shows that these concepts form an ideological as well as juridical construct against which Gurage courts decide on matters of guilt and innocence. Gurage judicial process is based on an hierarchy of legal assemblies which reflect the segmentary structure of Gurage political organization; but the law of säbat bet Gurage is the basis for all adjudication. In Gurage courts witnesses are always called upon to testify in cases of slander, attempted arson, burglary, and homicide. The traditional Gurage judicial system is gradually being weakened as an increasing number of Gurage now look to government courts for legal redress. The Gurage judicial system itself contains elements of change. It acts as a modernizing influence, legislating new laws and modifying old ones to meet changing social and economic conditions.
