Baptism

This is a symbolic representation of self-purification (from the Greek meaning plunge, dip), and of death to the old and rebirth to the new life which is being entered upon. Invariably it involves either complete immersion in water or washing or sprinkling with water and sometimes with blood or saliva. Although most familiar through the Christian ceremony (particularly baptism of babies, when it is combined with name-giving) it has its place in many cultures and the combination with the giving of names is not uncommon; after the ceremony, the initiate is a recognized member of the group. Infant baptism is also linked with the ritual cleansing of mother and child after parturition in order to remove ceremonial uncleanness and protect them from evil. Adult baptism may be of a similar passive nature, or may involve active reaffirmation of faith.