Indian Child Sacrifice
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Indian Child Sacrifice
An Indian infant, after it has refused to suck for three days, is cast upon the waters Date: circa 1850
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14279445
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1850 Cast Days Human Infant Refused Sacrifice Suck Waters
EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures the poignant moment of an Indian child being prepared for a sacrificial offering to the gods, circa 1850. The infant, who had refused to suck for three consecutive days, was believed to be possessed by an evil spirit, and as a result, was deemed unfit for life. According to ancient customs, such children were considered a burden and a threat to the community, and the only solution was to cast them upon the waters to appease the gods and ensure the well-being of the village. The photograph, taken around the mid-19th century, provides a chilling glimpse into the past, revealing the deeply rooted beliefs and practices of a culture that valued community harmony above all else. The child, dressed in simple clothing and cradled in the arms of a village elder, gazes out at the viewer with a look of uncertainty and fear. The water, which represents both life and death, looms ominously in the background, adding to the sense of foreboding. This image serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of human customs and traditions, and the sacrifices that people have made throughout history in the name of faith and community. It also underscores the importance of understanding and respecting the beliefs and practices of different cultures, even if they may seem alien or unsettling to us today.
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