A source-book of ancient history - The Search For Mecca

Family and Kin 551
hair: they are oxen, and a bridled horse or a shield with
spear and sword. This is the dowry which wins a ^vife,
and she in her turn brings the husband some gift of arms.
This represents to them our marriage bond, the mystic
celebrations, and all the gods of matrimony. A woman
must not think herself exempt from thoughts of bravery
or the chances of war. By the ceremony which begins her
wedded life she is warned that she comes to be her husband's
partner in toil and in danger, to suffer and to dare
with him alike in peace and war. This is plainly shown by
the yoked oxen, the bridled horse, and the gift of arms.
Thus she must live, and thus she must die. She is receiving
a trust which she must keep worthily and hand on to
her children, a trust which her sons' wives may receive in
turn and pass on to their children. . . .
The family are bound to share the feuds as well as the
Blood feud,
friendships of father or kinsman. But these feuds are Tac. Germ.
not irreconcilable. Even homicide has its price in a fixed '^'
tale
of cattle or sheep; the whole family receives the recompense.
This is a good policy for the community, since
feuds and freedom are dangerous side by side.
In entertainment
and hospitality no people are more profuse or
generous. It is thought wrong to refuse shelter to any
living man. Each according to his means receives his
guests with a liberal spread. When his store fails, the
former host sets out with his guest and guides him to another
lodging. They proceed to the next house without
any invitation. Nor does this make any difference; their
welcome is no less warm. As far as the right of hospitality
is concerned, no one makes any distinction between friend
and stranger. On a guest's departure, should he ask for
anything, their custom is to grant it; and the guest on his
part feels just as free to ask. They like presents, but do