Ἐπὶ βύρσης ἐκαθέζετο

This used to be performed among Scythians. Whenever someone was wronged by another,¹ but wished to defend himself and thought himself not equal alone in combat, he sacrificed an ox, cut the flesh into pieces, and boiled it. Then he spread the hide out on the ground and sat on it, having drawn his hands around to the back. This is the Scythians' greatest act of supplication. Anyone who wishes, taking a portion of the ox's flesh and stepping on the skin with his right foot, promises, each to the best of his ability, to be an ally. And this is their most firm oath.