On my temple's Facebook page, I recently posted a poll about a connection between this life and the next in Greek religion, and I asked: Do you think that giving regular offerings and sacrifices will help get you a good afterlife? The results were interesting.
44% said yes, 44% said no, and 12% were unsure.
Among those who said yes, I myself was included, and I'd like to explain why I think so. Of course, this is my own personal belief. There's nothing that says everyone else has to agree with me, but here is my reasoning.
The Hellenist gives offerings on a daily basis, or at least they should. I give at least burned incense each morning when I get up and each night before I go to bed. Of course, part of the idea behind offerings is reciprocity, but we must also remember that the more we engage in our spirituality, and the more we interact with Deity, the more we reach our higher selves, leaving more and more of the lower self behind. Therefore, the more the higher self takes over, the better chance we have of a higher existence in the next life. Or, in laymen's terms, a good afterlife.
The more we give offerings and sacrifices, the more we also gain the attention of the Gods through some of our best-expressed devotion. If one stopped doing offerings and sacrifices, they would likely feel a lack in their spiritual side. But there is one thing that is universally true. Regular offerings and sacrifices keep the Gods in your favor. Thus, the Gods and those who work for them, such as the Judges of the Underworld, may hold you in good regard as well.
Your religion and spirituality is not something you ever finish, as I say. It's always a progress, something you work on every day of your life.
In the Goodness of the Gods,
I'll see you at the next Herm down the road,
Chris Aldridge.