sargara

Sargara is a term that appears in ancient Mesopotamian religious and mythological texts, primarily associated with Sumerian and Akkadian traditions. It is often translated as "exorcism" or "purification ritual." Sargara rituals were performed to ward off evil spirits, cleanse individuals or places from impurity, and restore balance. These ceremonies were an integral part of the religious practices aimed at maintaining order and preventing supernatural malevolence.

The performance of a sargara typically involved incantations, prayers, and symbolic actions by priests or specialized ritualists. These actions were believed to have the power to neutralize harmful influences and appease the gods. Evidence suggests that sargara rituals were employed in various contexts, including in temples, homes, and during periods of personal or communal distress. The concept of purity and the need for ritualistic cleansing were fundamental to Mesopotamian cosmology, and sargara played a significant role in upholding these principles. While the specific details of many sargara rituals are not fully preserved, their presence in the surviving textual record highlights their importance in the spiritual and social fabric of ancient Mesopotamian societies.