Pagan Centered Podcast™

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the religious sacrifice of animals. I’m initiated in the Lucumi tradition, which is similar to Santeria just without the Catholic stuff.

The main person I’ve been taught by is extremely “old-school” in his practice, beliefs, etc. I respect that, but try to keep it balanced with what feels right for me. One area he and I differ a bit on is animal sacrifice. He’s been doing it for so many years now, he doesn’t really give it a second thought. Though I still get a bit grossed out when the sacrifice is happening, getting rid of the animal afterwards is something I look forward to even less…

Some animals are cooked and eaten afterwards. Other times, typically as part of a cleansing, the animals are “disposed” of elsewhere. Where they are left depends on the ceremony, what is needed, etc. Typically, though, it’s usually brought to the river, ocean, rail-road tracks, crossroads, or even near places like hospitals, banks, etc.

Especially in a post-9/11 era, this kind of thing just isn’t practical or safe for the practioner. It puts them at risk for fines and harassment. Not only that, but it also seems a bit selfish.

If it’s out in the middle of nowhere and the remains are likely to be eaten by other animals, I’m fine with that. But if it’s going to potentially bother people with its proximity to modern everyday life, well, that’s a whole other issue.

Thankfully, the are some modern practicioners with their own ways of honoring the requirements of their faith while still remaining mindful of others outside of the religion.

As an example, I needed to dispose of some remains after a ceremony a few months back and was told to take it to the ocean. I needed to find a spot where I could dispose of the animal remains, fruits, grains, etc. It would’ve worked just as well to simply dunk it in the water a few times, as a symbolic gesture, and then throwing it away in the nearest trash can. I ended up letting the fish, crabs, etc. have a nice big dinner that evening, but I think it just comes down to a judgement call. Unfortunately, a lot of the people out there just seem to have poor judgement.

What’s your take on it?

P.S., The standard “Do Not Try This At Home” disclaimer applies here. The people who perform the sacrifices know how to do it humanely. It’s only done for important ceremonies, offerings, etc. It sucks if you can’t find a job, date, etc., but step away from the chicken… lol. For most things, it’s a lot less messy (and cheaper) just to offer candles, food, and alcohol as an offering instead