Chariots of the Gods…

Right before the chariots comes the king (or, it seems, his representatives. I’ve read that there are only a couple of specific kings who are supposed to do this part. They don’t come over to do it here, though.)

His job in this shindig is to walk in front of the chariot, sweeping the road – a big part of the ritual here is to show that all are equal, regardless of social rank. So the king earns his keep serving the Gods. (I find myself liking this part; too many people with authority think they’re somehow above working for their keep.)