History of the Parsis : including their manners, customs, religion and present position : with coloured and other illustrations : in two volumes

166 AIISTORV OF THE PARSTS. [CHAP, Iv.

of a leaf of the pomegranate tree. The child is then bathed, after which it is dressed in a pair of trousers and cap with a clean white linen sheet wrapped round the body. In this state the candidate is taken by the priest to the hall or room where the ceremony is to be performed, and where are already assembled the “dastur” or chief priest, the relatives of the child, and a number of male and female guests invited to witness the ceremony. On this occasion all the ladies appear im their best attire and adorn themselves with fine jewellery. The assembly, composed as it is of the “dastur” and other priests dressed in their snow-white robes and turbans, of the gentlemen who wear their best clothes, and of the ladies in their brilliant dresses of many colours, is a pleasing and gay sight to behold. Throughout the performance of the ceremony strict silence prevails, which adds considerable solemnity to the occasion. The “dastur” and the priests take their places upon a rich carpet spread upon the floor, while the members of the family and guests sit around on chairs or sofas. The candidate is seated on a flat wooden stool before the “dastur,’ who, together with another priest, begins

ce

to recite the “patet” or prayer of repentance, in which the candidate joins if he is able to do so. After this the “dastur” requires the child to hold the “sudra” with both hands, and, placing his own upon

them, causes the following confession of faith to be