What was a key religious practice heavily relied upon by the Aztecs?

The reliance on human sacrifice by the Aztecs is a well-documented aspect of their religious practices, reflecting the central role that their cosmology placed on the relationship between the gods and humanity. The Aztecs believed that the sun required nourishment to continue its journey across the sky, and they thought that human blood was the most potent form of sustenance. Thus, human sacrifice was seen not only as a religious duty but also as a vital act that ensured the continuation of the world and the wellbeing of the community.

Human sacrifices were often conducted in elaborate ceremonies, which involved rituals that could be tied to specific agricultural cycles or astronomical events, underscoring the connection between religion and the natural world. These events reinforced social hierarchies and the power of the ruling class, who often perpetrated the sacrifices. Such practices were prominent in Aztec culture, influencing their art, literature, and social structure, and they demonstrated the significance of ritual in maintaining the societal order and religious beliefs.

While other practices like prayer, ritual fasting, and animal sacrifice had their roles, none held the same level of importance in the Aztec worldview or were as intricately linked to their beliefs concerning the cosmos and divine favor. The systematic use of human sacrifice illustrates how