What is the purpose of an altar in religious practices?

The purpose of an altar in religious practices is primarily to offer a designated space for sacrifices and religious rites. Altars are often considered sacred places where believers can perform rituals, make offerings, and engage in communion with the divine. They serve as focal points for worship and are integral to various ceremonies, such as prayers, blessings, and sacrifices, depending on the specific religious context.

In many traditions, altars symbolize the connection between the spiritual and physical realms, acting as a bridge for practitioners to connect with their beliefs and deities. This central role in facilitating direct interactions with the divine underscores the significance of altars in many religious practices.

The other options, such as serving merely as decorative elements, providing seating, or displaying artifacts, do not encompass the primary function of an altar, which is inherently about action—namely, the performance of rituals and offerings that hold profound spiritual meaning.