Ancient burial rites varied significantly across cultures, reflecting beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. Many societies, such as the Egyptians, practiced elaborate mummification to preserve the body for the afterlife, while others, like the Greeks, often cremated their dead. These rituals often included offerings, prayers, and ceremonies to honor the deceased and ensure safe passage to the next world. In Mesopotamia, burial practices included interring the body in graves with personal belongings, while the Norse people used ship burials for their leaders, symbolizing a journey to the afterlife. These customs highlight the importance of honoring the dead and the cultural significance of death in ancient societies.