Specific Practices for Key Gods

Zeus: Sacrifices of bulls, oak tree groves as sacred sites, and the Olympic Games.

Hera: Offerings of cows, peacocks, and pomegranates, with weddings and childbirth rituals seeking her blessing.

Poseidon: Sacrifices of horses, creation of maritime festivals, and offerings of fish and seaweed.

Demeter: Offerings of grain, fruits, and honey, participation in the Eleusinian Mysteries, and harvest festivals.

Athena: Dedication of weapons and armor, offerings of olive oil, and academic pursuits.

Apollo: Musical contests, offerings of laurel wreaths, and consultation of oracles.

Artemis: Hunting sacrifices, offerings of wild animals, and protection rituals for women and children.

Ares: Offerings of blood and weapons, war dances, and martial contests.

Aphrodite: Offerings of roses, doves, and perfumes, along with love festivals.

Hephaestus: Dedication of crafted items, metalworking festivals, and offerings of precious metals.

Hermes: Offerings of stones, crossroads shrines, and dedications of messages and travels.

Hestia: Household offerings, maintenance of the hearth flame, and family feasts.

These worship techniques and practices highlight the deep integration of religious rituals into the daily lives of the ancient Greeks, emphasizing their devotion to the gods and the importance of divine favor in all aspects of life.