Bull

an authoritative document issued by the popes, "usually an open letter containing some decree, order, or decision relating to a matter of grace or justice." The document is sealed with a globular leaden seal or bulla. The bulla is attached to it by a red or yellow thread, if relating to matters of grace, and by an uncolored strand of hemp, if relating to matters of justice. One side of the bulla, somewhat flattened, bears the heads of St. Peter and St. Paul; the other bears the name of the pope. The writing is in Latin on the finest parchment. A papal bull opens with the name of the pope. Thus the form is "Pius, episcopus, servus servorum Dei, in Domino salutem et apostolicam benedictionem,"--"Pius, bishop, servant of the servants of God, in the Lord salutation and apostolical benediction." The red seal of the pope is attached to the parchment itself. The term "papal bull" is akin to government bulletin. It has no relation to the similar word signifying a blunder. In 1758 an edition of papal bulls and briefs was published in nineteen volumes at Luxembourg. The editing required thirty years. For imperial bulls, see GOLDEN BULL.