Christianity
Islam
Judaism
Hinduism
Buddhism
Sacrifice & Offering
The practice of giving something precious to God — from animal sacrifice in ancient temples to bloodless offerings of praise and service — is a primal expression of worship. Sacrifice expresses gratitude, seeks atonement, and acknowledges that all things ultimately belong to the divine.
Across the World's Religions
Christianity
- Practice
- Christ's sacrifice once for all; spiritual sacrifices of praise
- Key Text
- Hebrews 10:10-14; Romans 12:1; Psalm 51:17
Islam
- Practice
- Qurbani / Udhiyah — animal sacrifice on Eid al-Adha
- Key Text
- Quran 22:34-37, 37:102-107
Judaism
- Practice
- Korbanot — Temple sacrifices (now replaced by prayer)
- Key Text
- Leviticus 1-7; Hosea 14:2; Psalm 51:17
Hinduism
- Practice
- Yajna (fire sacrifice); Puja offerings of flowers, fruit, incense
- Key Text
- Bhagavad Gita 3:14-15; Rig Veda 1.1
Buddhism
- Practice
- Dana (offering) to monks; merit-making through generosity
- Key Text
- AN 5.34; Itivuttaka 26