Final answer:
The Sumerians worshipped many gods in temple complexes with ziggurats, serving them with rituals and sacrifices to avoid divine retaliation. The ruling elite, priesthood, and commoners all played roles in maintaining the gods' favor to ensure societal prosperity and protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Worship of Sumerian Deities
The Sumerians were a polytheistic society, each city-state worshipping its own patron deity in large temple complexes centered around a ziggurat. These gods were anthropomorphic and were thought to control natural forces and aspects of life. To avoid the gods' wrath, which could manifest as natural disasters or epidemics, the Sumerians conducted rituals involving sacrifices, hymns, and offered gifts to their deities.
The Importance of Servitude to the Gods
Sumerians believed human beings were created to serve the gods, therefore playing a role in sustaining the gods with sacrifices and maintaining temples. Rulers, priests, and common people had different responsibilities towards serving their gods, but all aimed to maintain divine favor for prosperity and protection against calamities.
Influence of the Gods on Sumerian Society
Gods were placed at the center of Sumerian society, influencing the rule of priestly governors and the daily lives of the people. The priesthood's power lay in their claim to appease the gods and prevent divine retribution, which reinforced the social importance of religion.