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Did any ancient civilization practice human sacrifices?

Alexia Perett

Yes, there are several ancient civilizations that practiced human sacrifices. The practice of sacrificing human beings as offerings to gods or goddesses was a common ritual in many cultures throughout history.

One of the most well-known ancient civilizations that practiced human sacrifice was the Aztecs. The Aztecs believed that sacrificing humans was a necessary offering to the gods to ensure the sun would rise each day. The sacrifice was typically done by extracting the heart, which would then be offered to the gods. It is estimated that thousands of people were sacrificed annually in Aztec society.

Another civilization that practiced human sacrifice was the Maya. According to Mayan religion, blood was considered a powerful substance that was necessary for the gods to maintain the balance of the universe. Human sacrifices were often performed during important ceremonies and events, such as the dedication of a new temple or the crowning of a king.

The Inca civilization also practiced human sacrifice, although it was not as common as in other cultures. Inca sacrifices were typically done as a way to appease the gods or to prevent disasters, such as earthquakes or droughts. The Inca would often sacrifice children, as they believed they were pure and innocent.

The Celts, who lived in Europe over 2,000 years ago, also practiced human sacrifice. The Celtic people believed that sacrificing humans would appease their gods and bring good fortunes to their people. They would often sacrifice animals as well, but humans were considered the ultimate offering.

There are many other ancient civilizations that practiced human sacrifice, including the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. In these cultures, human sacrifices were typically performed as a way to demonstrate devotion to a deity or to appease the gods during times of crisis.

In modern times, the practice of human sacrifice is universally condemned and considered a criminal act. However, it is important to understand the historical context of these practices and the beliefs and customs of these ancient civilizations. By studying these cultures, we can gain a better understanding of our own beliefs and the ways in which our society has evolved.