What actions could bring divine punishment upon Hittite temple workers?

In the context of Anatolian religion, Hittite temple personnel were subject to strict regulations to ensure the proper service of the gods. According to tablets of instructions, divine vengeance was threatened against workers who committed the following offenses:

• Misappropriating food or drink intended for sacrifice.1
• Admitting unauthorized persons or unclean animals into the temples.1
• Stealing vessels or implements belonging to the deity.1
• Failing to celebrate festivals at the designated times.1
• Deserting their posts to spend the night with their wives.1

These rules reflect the Hittite view that the relationship between humans and gods was akin to that of a servant and a master, where the gods required consistent care, including being fed, clothed, and washed. When offenses occurred, the Hittite tradition emphasized the importance of confession and expiation to appease the divine spirit and avoid further punishment.21