Ephoroi (Ephoros)

The most powerful official in ancient Greece, Sparta. It consisted of five members, elected by the citizens in the popular assembly. They were named after the eldest member. Their term of office was one year. There are various theories about the origin of this position, but its authority expanded during the process of establishing democracy within the Spartan citizens. They controlled the administration and judiciary, and strictly supervised the daily life of the citizens. The king swore an oath to them, and they could remain in their position as long as they obeyed the law. In military matters, they decided the mustering and size of the army, and oversaw the king's command. They also had the authority to negotiate with foreign envoys.

[Masato Furuyama]

Source: Shogakukan Encyclopedia Nipponica About Encyclopedia Nipponica Information | Legend

古代ギリシア、スパルタの最高の権力をもつ役人。5名からなり、民会で市民の間から選出された。最年長者の名で紀年された。任期は1年。この職の起源には諸説あるが、スパルタ市民内の民主政確立の過程のなかでその権限を拡大した。行政、司法を統べ、市民の日常生活をも厳しく監督した。王は彼らと誓い、法に従う限りその地位にとどまりえた。軍事面でも軍の招集とその規模を決定し、王の指揮を監視した。また外国使節と交渉する権限をも有した。

［古山正人］

出典　小学館　日本大百科全書(ニッポニカ)日本大百科全書(ニッポニカ)について　情報 | 凡例