Libation in Neo Assyrian Kingdom with the light of written documents and described works

Libation refers to the presentation of drinks by pouring a liquid dedicated to god on the ground or to a certain area. The place of libation held is considered as holy so, the ceremony is performed in frond, next to or on this holy place. The libation ritual is performed in front of the statue or symbol that represents the god for which it is performed. It is understood that libation has an important place in the Assyrian religious life along with many religious ceremonies. In the Neo Assyrian visual art, libation ceremonies are also used in the scenes on reliefs and seals. In these descriptions, libation is practiced by men (king and heir). These male figures should be responsible for libation as religious officials. Containers such as bowls and pots were used in the libation rituals. These containers vary in their style and construction technique. This can be attributed to the diversity of the purpose of the libation ritual usage. Archaeological data indicate that the Neo-Assyrians organized libation ceremonies, after hunting, after military expeditions and during temple construction. However, although there is no archaeological data on this subject at present, the Neo-Assyrians should probably have regulated libation during the coming of spring, agricultural activities and burial ceremonies, as in contemporary Urartu. As you can see, there are many questions waiting to be answered on libation in Neo-Assyria. Clarifying these questions will only be possible by revealing written sources that provide information on this subject. Scientific studies are continuing in the geography where the Neo-Assyria established reighn. As a matter of fact, we believe that the data to be obtained as a result of these studies will provide clarifications and suggestions for the liberation ritual in Neo-Assyria.