Ancestor worship involves honoring, respecting, and seeking guidance and protection from deceased ancestors through various rituals and practices.

Ancestor worship has been a central part of Chinese culture for thousands of years, with elaborate rituals and traditions dedicated to honoring deceased ancestors.

A divine ancestor is a deceased ancestor who is believed to have attained a divine status and is worshipped as a deity.

In ancient Greece, hero cult figures were individuals who were believed to have possessed extraordinary abilities or performed heroic deeds, and were worshipped after their death.

Ancestor worship is primarily concerned with deceased ancestors, while hero cults focus on living individuals who are believed to possess extraordinary abilities or have performed heroic deeds.

Romulus is the legendary founder of Rome and is considered a hero cult figure in ancient Roman mythology.

Ancestor invocation is a ritual or ceremony performed to invoke the presence of deceased ancestors and communicate with them.

Offerings made to deceased ancestors in ancestor worship can include food and drink, incense and candles, prayers and chants, and other symbolic items.

Hero cults serve to honor and celebrate the achievements of heroes, seek their guidance and protection, and inspire and motivate living individuals through their stories and examples.

Osiris is an ancient Egyptian god of the underworld and a hero cult figure who was worshipped for his role in the afterlife.

A hero shrine is a sacred space or structure dedicated to a hero cult figure, where offerings are made and rituals are performed in their honor.

Hercules is a legendary Greek hero known for his strength, courage, and numerous heroic feats.

A heroic narrative is a story or legend that recounts the life and achievements of a hero cult figure, often involving supernatural elements and extraordinary feats.

Julius Caesar is a prominent Roman hero cult figure known for his military victories and political achievements.

A hero festival is a celebration or event held in honor of a hero cult figure, often involving rituals, performances, and communal gatherings.