Libation facts for kids
A libation is a special kind of offering. It's when people pour a liquid, like water or milk, or even grains like rice, as a gift. This offering is usually made to a god or spirit, or to remember people who have passed away. This practice was very common in many religions of ancient times and is still done in different cultures today.
What are Libations?
Libations are a type of ritual offering. A ritual is a set of actions performed in a specific order, often for religious reasons. People perform libations to show respect, ask for blessings, or honor someone.
Many different liquids and grains have been used for libations. Some common ones include wine, olive oil, or even ghee (a type of clarified butter) in places like India. The containers used for these offerings, like a special bowl called a patera, were often unique. They looked different from everyday bowls.
Where were Libations offered?
The liquid or grain could be poured onto something important for the religion, such as an altar. An altar is a special table or raised structure used for religious ceremonies. Sometimes, the offering was poured directly onto the earth.
In some parts of East Asia, people pour an offering of rice into a running stream. This act can symbolize letting go of bad energy or past actions.
Images for kids
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A Roman bronze statue of a priest making an offering. His head is covered, and he holds a patera (a shallow bowl).
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A Buryat shaman performing a libation ceremony.
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The Roman emperor Trajan pouring a libation during a military event. This is from a relief on Trajan's Column.
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People pouring a libation at a ceremony in Bouaké, Ivory Coast.
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A Burmese Buddhist water libation ceremony in 1900.
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The Tarpan ceremony, where holy water is offered, at Jagannath Ghat in Kolkata.
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A modern example of pouring out a liquid in memory of someone.
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See also
In Spanish: Libación para niños
