why do so many religions have the idea of sacrifice?

Question

it seems to be a common theme in many religions, mainly in the old days, but even now some cling to the concept... why would people think a god would want his/her creation destroyed, and that it would give that god pleasure?

Answer 1

I've got a couple thoughts on this one...

The word itself is drawn from a combination of words meaning "to make sacred". By virtue of giving something up, you prove (to yourself, to others, to a deity, to God) that you consider in whose or what's name you gave this thing up to be sacred or hallowed.

Unlike most trades whereby one gives up something of value for something of like value, a religious sacrifice usually involves giving up something of material value (a lamb, gold etc) for the general or specific benevolence of a deity.

This is good marketing, in that an audience will recognize that something (the deity) that is mostly given substantiation by thought and emotion alone, is now also being given a material context (by way of the material sacrifice).

"If you sacrifice to it, they will come" - Might have been the motto outside of many a temple.

Hehe have a good one.

Answer 2

This entire concept is rooted in ignorance. Lack of understanding caused many people throughout time to proclaim many untruths, and commit unjust acts to help themselves feel as if they were somehow communicating or acting on behalf of some supernatural being.

Answer 3

The point of sacrifice is to show faith and obedience toward God

Answer 4

Because Gluttony is one of the seven deadly sins and there's nothing more unholy than a fat glutton. Sacrafice makes us learn to live without and makes us stronger.

Answer 5

study the Old Testament....
Sacrifices had to made to atone for sins.

Answer 6

animals are still being sacrificed today , Muslims slaughter thousands of animal (camels , cattle , sheep and goats) during their festival in mecca!