Lautio

Lautio refers to a religious ceremony or ritual, particularly within ancient Roman culture. It involved the purification of an army before they embarked on a military campaign. The ceremony typically included the sacrifice of an animal, often a pig, sheep, or bull, followed by a procession. The entrails of the sacrificed animal were examined by priests for omens, and the blood was used to sprinkle or anoint the soldiers, symbolizing their cleansing and dedication to the gods for protection and victory. The term "lautio" itself is derived from Latin, suggesting a cleansing or washing action. While primarily associated with military contexts, similar purification rituals existed in other aspects of Roman religious life, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity for spiritual and communal well-being. The practice highlights the integration of religious observance with significant civic and military undertakings in ancient Roman society.