The expression “cultic meals” denotes solemn eating and drinking (Eating/Drinking), as opposed to everyday satisfaction of the appetite. In cultic meals, table fellowship establishes a link with the divinity (convivium) or participation in it (communio, theophagy), and thereby a share in the divine life force. Cultic meals take place at fixed times and in special places, according to fixed rules (Rite and ritual), supported by a cultic community. Cultic meals are often connected with sacrifices that offer food to the divinity.
In the Old Testament, the prevail…