What do we call the promise a vassal makes to a lord?

The story behind the answer

In medieval feudalism, a vassal bound himself to a lord by swearing fealty—an explicit promise of loyalty and service in return for protection and a fief. This vow was typically given during homage, when the vassal knelt and placed his hands within the lord’s, followed by the “kiss of peace.” It could be sworn on a Bible or relics, and breaking it was treated as treason.

The other terms describe related but different elements: a “feudal contract” is a modern label for the overall reciprocal arrangement; the “homage ceremony” is the ritual context; and a “pledge of service” is too vague for the precise legal-religious commitment expected. The oath bound the vassal to provide counsel and military aid (often around 40 days’ service) or pay scutage, shaping the backbone of medieval political and military life.