Over the centuries, ancient religions were still in existence. They have been able to provide answers for people's questions about life and death. Learn more about the Greek and Roman religions as well as Mesopotamian beliefs. Understanding our identity and that of others is possible through ancient religions. You'll also learn about the importance of rituals in the lives of different groups.
Mesoamerican Religions
Mesoamerican religions had many deities that were closely linked to nature and the cycles. A prominent divinity was the feathered serpent. This creature was worshipped as a messenger between heaven and earth. Its worship was widespread throughout Mesoamerica, from the Pre-Classic to the Post-Classic periods. Temples to this divinity were constructed in cities like Nahua or Teotihuacan.
Religion was an important part of Maya culture. It provided authority to the rulers and provided a moral code to help the people in conflict. It also served as a morale booster for communities, and even served as a way to justify war. However, in many of the Mesoamerican civilizations, the role of religion was more political than religious.
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. While there are many Greeks who follow religion today, the Greeks were unique in that they often considered their own society to be outsiders.
The Greeks considered religion a way of living, and their gods very human. And unlike modern religions that separate the church from the state, the Greek gods are very real. These stories could have been inspired from real-life events.
Roman religions
Ancient Roman religions were not based on a single central belief, but on a variety of rituals, superstitions, and taboos. This resulted in a religion that was less spiritual and more like a contract between man and nature. Jupiter, for example was the god, and the same as other Indoeuropean sky gods.
Romans believed many gods, most of them animistic. Animistic belief taught that spirits were everywhere and that the spirits of their ancestors watched over them. They added more deities to represent abstract social forces as they progressed. Dea Roma, for example, was the embodiment of the spirit and Rome while Concordia, was the goddess of harmony. Also, Victoria, the Roman equivalent of Nike in Greek was also called Victoria.
Religions of Mesopotamian origin
The worship of gods was an important part of the ancient Mesopotamian religions. Additionally, they were often associated with particular cities or livestock. In addition, the gods were thought to have humanlike forms and often reacted to their surroundings with emotion and reason. Their worship was motivated by meeting the gods’ needs. These included celebrations for birth, marriage, death, and other ceremonies.
The priests' main function was to act as intermediaries between God and the people. Mesopotamia was eventually ruled by kings. These kings were given semi-divine authority, and they ruled with God's favor. Priests, however, were still the most powerful members of Mesopotamian societies.
Indian religions
Jainism is an ancient religion in India that dates back to around the ninth century BCE. This religion is rooted in the dharma (morality) of the past and focuses on the consequences of one's actions. It is a peaceful religion that encourages non-violence and avoids violence.
Indians are open to many religious traditions and beliefs. Although there are many religious beliefs that transcend religion, Indians rely on karma. Good deeds are rewarded, while bad ones lead to punishment in the next world. Seventy two percent of Hindus believe in karma, while Christians, Jains and Hindus believe in it. Most Hindus and Muslims believe in some type of heaven.