The thusia

The essence of the sacred act is in Greek practice a straight-forward and far from miraculous process : the slaughter and consuption of a domestic animal for a god. The sacrifice creates a relationship between the sacrificer and the god. Even if the ritual varies in details according to the local ancestral custom, the sacrifice is always a festive occasion for the community.

The stages of the sacrifice

The animal chosen is to be perfect, and it is adorned, entwined with ribbons, with its horns gilded.
A procession escorts the animal to the altar. Everyonehopes as a rule that the animal will go to the sacrifice complaisantly, or rather voluntarily. A blameless maiden at the front of the procession carries on her head the sacrificial basket in wich the knife for the sacrifice. A vessel containing water is also borne along.

Then , all stand around the altar.

• Once the procession has arrived at the sacred spot, the animal is sprinkled with water, causing it to jerkits head, wich is interpreted as the animal nodding its assent.
• The participants each take a handful of barley groats from the sacrificial basket. Silent descends.
• The sacrificer recitesa prayer, invocation, wish and vow. Then, as if in confirmation, all hurl their barley groats forward onto the altar and the sacrificial animal.
• The sacrificial knife in the basket is now uncovered. The sacrificer grasps the knife and, concealing the weapon, strides up the victim : he cuts some hairs from its forehead and throws them on the fire.
• The slaughter now fellows. The blood is collected in a bassin and sprayed over the altar.As the fatal blow falls; the women must cry out in high, shrill tones : life screams over death.

Conclusion

The animal is skinned and butchered ; the inner organs are roasted on the fire on the altar. The inedible remains are then consecrated. Above all, the sacrificer pours wine over the fire so that the alcohol flames up.