Sin Eaters
A Sin Eater is a historical figure who was believed to take on the sins of a deceased person. This practice was common in some cultures, particularly in parts of Europe, during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Sin Eater would consume a ritual meal, often bread and ale, placed on the body or grave of the deceased, symbolically absorbing their sins and allowing the soul to rest in peace.
The role of a Sin Eater was often viewed with a mix of reverence and stigma. While they provided a service to grieving families, they were sometimes marginalized due to their association with death and sin. This unique practice reflects the complex beliefs surrounding death, sin, and redemption in historical societies.