The remnant of water fetish survives as a belief in holy water. [1]
Birth rituals historically aimed to protect against ghostly interference and purify the mother, highlighting the perceived danger and uncleanliness of childbirth. [2] The practice of dipping fingers in holy water, used in Mithraic and Christian ritual, united followers of both religions in ancient Rome. [3] Holy water, once used by priests to wash feet, was believed to be the ultimate protection against ghosts. [4]