Describe Sumerian religious practices

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumerian_religion

Sumerian religious practices were an important aspect of their society and deeply influenced their daily lives. To understand these practices, we can explore various sources, such as archaeological findings, written texts, and historical records.

1. Cuneiform Texts: One way to understand Sumerian religious practices is through the study of cuneiform texts. These ancient clay tablets contain information about beliefs, rituals, and deities worshipped by the Sumerians. These texts often provide insights into the religious ceremonies, prayers, and myths.

2. Mythology: Sumerian religious practices were intertwined with their mythology. They believed in a polytheistic system, where a multitude of gods and goddesses governed different aspects of life. For example, Inanna was the goddess of love and war, and Enki was the god of wisdom and water. Understanding the Sumerian mythological stories can shed light on how they perceived and interacted with their deities.

3. Religious Hymns and Prayers: Another valuable source of information is the collection of religious hymns and prayers found in Sumerian texts. These texts often offer insights into the rituals performed to honor the deities, the invocation of gods and goddesses, and the purposes for which prayers were recited.

4. Temple Rituals: Sumerians had dedicated temples where they worshipped their deities. These temples were central to religious practices, and the rituals performed within them were vital aspects of Sumerian worship. Through the examination of temple structures and artifacts found in archaeological excavations, we can gain a better understanding of their religious ceremonies and practices.

5. Sacrifices and Offerings: Like many ancient civilizations, the Sumerians believed in making sacrifices and offerings to their gods as a means of communication. They used a wide range of offerings, including food, drink, animals, and even statues. By studying these offerings and the rituals associated with them, we can learn more about Sumerian religious practices.

By combining information from various sources such as written texts, archaeological findings, and historical records, we can piece together a comprehensive understanding of Sumerian religious practices. It is important to note that our knowledge is continuously evolving as more discoveries are made, and new interpretations are proposed by scholars in the field.