Ancient Near Eastern religions

Ancient Near Eastern religions encompassed diverse belief systems of civilizations like the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Hittites. Central to these religions was the worship of multiple gods and goddesses, each governing aspects of life and nature, such as agriculture, war, and fertility. Rituals, myths, and temples played crucial roles in connecting the community with the divine. Concepts like creation, the afterlife, and divine justice were significant, often reflected in epic tales like the Epic of Gilgamesh. These ancient beliefs influenced later religions, including Judaism and Christianity, shaping spiritual and cultural development in the region.