An Icelandic chieftain holding both religious and political functions.
The goði was a combined religious and political leader in the Icelandic Free State, responsible for conducting blóts on behalf of his goðorð and representing his farmers at the assembly. The office was hereditary but could be bought and sold.
The goði stood in a reciprocal relationship with his þingmenn who supported him politically and economically in exchange for his protection of their rights and his conduct of religious ceremonies. Power was personal rather than territorial.
Attestations
- Grágás Ia, Þingfararbálkr
- Regulates the goði's duties and rights under Icelandic law.