Why were libations and sacrifices offered to Earth Mother?

In Baltic religion, libations and sacrifices were offered to Zemes māte (Earth Mother) because she represents the female aspect of nature and serves as the source of all life, including humans, animals, and plants. As the personified earth, she is the primary force in the fertility cult, and her role encompasses the broader assurance of human welfare.123

Rituals were performed to honor her and acknowledge her power to stimulate and protect life. Specifically:1

• Festival Openings: Libations of beer were offered to her at the start of every festival.1
• Offerings: Products of the earth—such as ale, bread, and herbs—were buried in the ground, thrown into bodies of water, or tied to trees as offerings.1
• Life Milestones: The birth of a child was celebrated with specific offerings to the Earth Mother to seek her favor and protection.1

Zemes māte is considered one of the few deities, alongside Dievs, who is originally responsible for human welfare, making these acts of devotion essential to maintaining the divine rhythm of life.23