Carthaginian religion was polytheistic, centered around a pantheon of gods and goddesses, with a strong emphasis on rituals and sacrifices. The chief deity was Baal, often associated with fertility and agriculture, while Tanit was a prominent goddess linked to motherhood and war. Religious practices included offerings, festivals, and divination to seek favor from the gods. The Carthaginians believed in the afterlife and practiced ancestor worship. They constructed temples and altars for their deities, and some rituals involved the controversial practice of child sacrifice, particularly during times of crisis. This complex belief system played a crucial role in their society and culture.