IMMOLATION, n. Killing, as a sacrificial act.
The butcher knocks his victim on the head —
That’s slaughter, for ’tis man who’s to be fed;
The priest downs his, before the gods to set it,
That’s immolation — pray do not forget it.
If I have made the difference distinct
My fingers to some purpose I have inked;
But there I stop — you’ll have to ask the priest
Why gods who love the meat can’t kill the beast.
Perhaps he’ll give your question recognition,
Perhaps condemn your spirit to perdition.