VERWENDUNG VON SPEICHEL IN HETHITISCHEN RITUALEN

Abstract

The Hittite cuneiform texts, especially spells and rituals, are characterized by various ritual actions. In this case, we will focus on the use of saliva/spit in the form of "spit, spit towards, spit into, spit out, spit upwards, spit on". The Hittites used it as a means of spiritual cleansing, protection, medicinal purposes and when taking oaths. The Hittites believed in the healing properties of saliva/spit and believed that it had the power to eliminate evil influences, remove impurities and cleanse negative energies. It is important that the findings of the people of the world are confirmed by modern medical research, especially about the antimicrobial, wound healing and antiseptic properties of saliva, as well as the protective function of the immune system. Every action of the Hittites that appears in rituals and incantations is very important and contains important information and was not only based on beliefs and ideas, but also obviously had a practical purpose.

Keywords. Assyriology, Hittitology, Hittites, ritual, purification, treatment, saliva, spit, spitting.