A Conversation for The Grim Reaper
Sin Eater
clzoomer- a bit woobly Started conversation Jan 20, 2003
Just a little off topic, do you know anything the old Welsh (and Irish I believe) practice of the sin eater? He went about to wakes and ate food off the corpse to take on the deceased's sins. His son was supposed to do the same for him and take on the family business. Needless to say the accumulated sin made that part very important!
Very interesting and thought provoking piece, thank you.
Sin Eater
The Dali Llama Posted Jan 20, 2003
I had not known that the custom originaed in Wales/Ireland. I had heard of t as an Appalachian custom. Of course, there were many immigrants of assorted Celtic stocks who wound up in Appalachia.
So the sin-eaters family must have enourmous sins to carry after a few generations, what happens if he doesn't have a son?
Sin Eater
clzoomer- a bit woobly Posted Jan 20, 2003
I understand he is hell-bound to suffer the consequences. An interesting career choice to make consciously.
Sin Eater
Phryne- 'Best Suppurating Actress' Posted Jan 21, 2003
Have you read the extremely grim story about the sin-eater?
Sin Eater
Phryne- 'Best Suppurating Actress' Posted Jan 21, 2003
It is 'The Sins of the Fathers', by Christianna Brand...
a man is sent over the mountains to collect the sin-eater, but he is gravely ill. His wife sends her son instead- they are starving- and instructs him not to eat the food but conceal it and bring it back, which he does. After he gives the food to Mam, she reveals his father has died but ne'ermind, there's a glorious feast prepared for him...
nyurgh!
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Sin Eater
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