For centuries, ancient religions have been around. They have provided answers to many life- and death-related questions. Learn about the Greek and Roman religions, as well as Mesopotamian beliefs. The ancient religions can help us understand ourselves and others. Learn about the role of rituals in different cultures.
Mesoamerican religions
Mesoamerican religions had many deities, most of which were linked to nature or the cycles of nature. A prominent divinity was the feathered serpent. This creature was worshipped as a messenger between heaven and earth. It was widely worshiped throughout Mesoamerica during the Pre-Classic and Post-Classic periods. Temples to this divinity were constructed in cities like Nahua or Teotihuacan.
The religion was an important aspect of Maya culture. It was the basis of authority for the rulers, and a code of morality to assist the people affected by conflict. It served to motivate communities and was even used as a justification for war. In many Mesoamerican civilizations religion played a more political role than it did religiously.
Greek religions
Greek religion is one of the most fascinating ancient religions, with rituals centered around animal sacrifices and a sense of community. Prometheia, a classic tragedy by the Greeks, combines both classical drama with lessons on Greek religion. Many Greeks now practice religion but the Greeks were an exceptional group who often considered themselves to be outsiders in their society.
The Greeks saw religion as a way to live, and their gods were very real. The Greek gods were real, unlike most other religions. These stories could have been inspired from real-life events.
Roman religions
Ancient Roman religions weren't based on one central belief but rather on a multitude of rituals, superstitions, or taboos. The result was a religion that was less of a spiritual experience and more like a contractual relationship between man and the forces of nature. Jupiter, for example, was the god of sky. This is similar to other Indo-European sky gods.
Romans believed many gods, most of them animistic. Animistic beliefs taught that spirits inhabited everything and that citizens were watched over by the spirits of their ancestors. They gradually added deities that represented abstract social forces. For example, the goddess Dea Roma was the personification of the spirit of Rome, while Concordia was the goddess of harmony. In addition, the goddess Victoria was the Roman equivalent of the Greek goddess Nike.
Mesopotamian religions
Ancient Mesopotamian religions relied on the worship of gods. These gods were often associated with various aspects of nature. In addition, they were associated with specific cities and livestock. Additionally, it was believed that the gods had human-like forms and often responded to their surroundings with emotion or reason. Their worship was based on meeting the needs of the gods, which included ceremonies and festivals for birth, marriage, and death.
The primary role of priests was as intermediaries between people and gods. Mesopotamia was eventually ruled by kings. These kings were imbued with semi-divine authority and ruled with the god's favor. However, priests were still the most important individuals in Mesopotamian society.
Indian religions
Jainism is an ancient religion from India that dates back around the ninth century BCE. This religion is rooted firmly in the dharma (morality), of the past, and focuses on the consequences one's actions have. It is peaceful and nonviolent religion that promotes the freedom from violence and the exploitation animal.
Indians are open to many religious traditions and beliefs. Although some religious beliefs cross over religion lines, most Indians believe in karma, the idea that good deeds are rewarded and bad deeds bring punishment in the next life. Seventy-two percentage of Hindus, Christians, Jains, and Jains believe karma. A majority of Hindus or Muslims also believe in some sort of heaven.