HUMAN SACRIFICE Meaning and
Definition
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Human sacrifice refers to a ritualistic and deliberate act of killing a person, typically as an offering to a deity or supernatural power. This practice has been observed in various cultures throughout history and across different regions of the world. The purpose behind human sacrifice varies across contexts, but it is often associated with religious or spiritual beliefs, as a means of appeasing gods, seeking favor, or preserving social order.
In human sacrifice, individuals or groups are selected to be voluntarily or involuntarily sacrificed, depending on the particular cultural traditions or circumstances. The chosen victims may be members of the community, prisoners of war, or even individuals who have willingly chosen death for various reasons, such as to attain martyrdom. The methods employed in human sacrifice range from public ceremonies involving elaborate rituals, such as ceremonial decapitation, burning, or dismemberment, to more secluded and secretive acts performed in sacred sites or secluded areas.
Historically, human sacrifice has been practiced by civilizations across the globe, spanning ancient civilizations like the Aztecs, Mayans, Egyptians, and Carthaginians. While the act itself presents an extreme violation of human rights, it is important to understand it within the cultural and historical context of those societies. Modern ethical standards strongly condemn human sacrifice, as it disregards the fundamental respect for human life and dignity.
Contemporary society views human sacrifice as an archaic and abhorrent practice, and it is universally prohibited by international law. The mere mention of human sacrifice now invokes horror and disbelief, serving as a stark reminder of the journey humanity has undertaken to protect the fundamental rights and inherent worth of every individual.
Etymology of HUMAN SACRIFICE
The word "human sacrifice" comes from the combination of two words: "human" and "sacrifice".
The term "human" originates from the Latin word "humanus", which means "of mankind" or "human". It can be further traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "dhghem", meaning "earth" or "ground".
The term "sacrifice" comes from the Latin word "sacrificium", which is a combination of "sacer" (sacred) and "facere" (to make). It refers to the act of offering something valuable or sacred, often to a deity, as an act of worship or propitiation.
Therefore, "human sacrifice" refers to the act of offering or sacrificing a human being as part of a religious or ritualistic practice.
