Blood as an element of the sacralization of violence in the sacrificial rites of ancient cultures
This article analyzes the significance and symbolism of blood in sacrificial rites across various ancient cultures. It examines how blood functioned in sacrificial rites and the significance it was attached to in mythological and religious consciousness. Blood is viewed as a symbol and sacred element, playing a key role in maintaining cosmic and social order, as well as establishing a connection between the human and divine realms. A comparative study of sources from the Sumerian, ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Vedic, and Mesoamerican traditions reveals both specific and common elements of ritual practice associated with the use of blood. Both textual sources and archaeological data are used for the study, revealing consistent patterns of blood use in rituals. The diversity of ritual forms and functions of blood sacrifices, their role in religious practice and social life, are analyzed. The conclusion is drawn about the significance of ritual practices of sacrifice and blood as a complex cultural and religious mechanism through which ancient societies recognized acceptable forms of violence and gave them sacred legitimacy.
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