What were the major Mayan rituals and ceremonies associated with religion?

The Mayan civilization had a rich and complex religious belief system, which was deeply intertwined with their daily lives. They performed various rituals and ceremonies to honor their gods and ancestors, seek blessings, and maintain harmony with the natural world. Some of the major Mayan rituals and ceremonies associated with religion include:

1. Bloodletting Rituals: Bloodletting was a central aspect of Mayan religious practices. It involved the extraction of blood, usually from the tongue or genitals, as an offering to the gods. Blood was believed to possess a life force and was seen as a way to communicate with the divine.

2. Human Sacrifice: Human sacrifice was another significant ritual in Mayan religion. It was believed that sacrificing individuals, often prisoners of war or captives, would appease the gods and ensure the well-being of the community. These sacrifices were often performed during important ceremonies or to mark significant events.

3. Ballgame Rituals: The Mayans had a popular ballgame called "pok-a-tok," which had religious significance. The game was seen as a cosmic battle between the forces of good and evil. It was believed that the outcome of the game influenced the balance of the universe, and winning or losing had spiritual implications.

4. Offering Rituals: Mayans made offerings to their gods in various forms, including food, pottery, jade, and other valuable items. These offerings were placed in sacred spaces such as temples or caves, and it was believed that they would please the gods and ensure their favor.

5. Calendar Ceremonies: The Mayans had a highly advanced calendar system, and they performed ceremonies to mark important dates and celestial events. These ceremonies were conducted by priests and involved offerings, prayers, and rituals to honor specific gods associated with the particular date or event.

6. Ancestor Worship: The Mayans revered their ancestors and believed in their continued presence and influence in the world. They conducted rituals and ceremonies to honor and communicate with their ancestors, seeking their guidance and protection.

These rituals and ceremonies were integral to the Mayan religious worldview and played a crucial role in maintaining social order, ensuring agricultural fertility, and seeking divine blessings for the community.