What rules governed behavior inside a lud sacred grove?

In the context of Finno-Ugric religion, the lud—a sacred grove used by the Votyaks (Udmurt) and Zyryans—was governed by strict behavioral codes to maintain its sanctity.12

Rules and customs included:

• Prohibitions on Damage: It was strictly forbidden to break even a single branch from the trees within the fenced enclosure.1
• Ritual Purity: Those with legitimate business at the lud were required to bathe before entering.1
• Behavioral Conduct: No unseemly behavior was permitted in the vicinity of the grove.1
• Access Restrictions: In certain areas, women and children were entirely banned from entering the grove.1
• Consumption Requirements: All food brought for sacrificial feasts had to be consumed entirely on the premises.1
• Supervision: The grove was overseen by a special guardian whose position was hereditary, ensuring that these traditions and rules were upheld.12

These groves were considered highly sacred spaces, often dedicated to deities or heroic ancestors, where the environment was carefully preserved to avoid offending the spirits residing within.1