Sin Eater
Oh sin eater, come today
come to where my loved one lay
he was easily led astray
help him cast these stains away.
Bread and wine upon the breast
of my darling laid to rest
half a shilling paid to thee
eat this meal and set him free.
Ameliorate this funeral feast
take on the sins of my deceased
allowing them to be released
so that my love may rest in peace.
© Rebecca Sanchez 2016
Written with Magpie Tales and Imaginary Garden Of Real Toads.
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Sin eating. I’ve never heard of this. But even so, the tragedy of whatever sin was committed in the first stanza gives this a very important, urgent tone. Really lovely.
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Thanks so much! When I read about this old practice I knew I had to find a way to write about it. Glad you liked it.
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Like an ancient chant from funeral rites.
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I just learned about “sin eaters” in history it’s very interesting. Thanks for coming!
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A gentle piece of poetics, Bekkie! Beauty and grace reside there!
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What a nice thing to say but then you always have nice things to say Walt. Hugs!
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It does read like a beautiful prayer…lovely writing Bekkie!!
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Thank you so much Carrie.
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This has the feel of an ancient lament. Powerful words.
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Sin Eating is an ancient practice I read about online.
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A good wish, that the loved one may rest in peace.
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Yes it is. Thanks for coming by and commenting Sherry.
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