A libation is a ritual pouring of a drink as an offering to a god or goddess. It was common in pagan religions. The liquid that was used in libations varied; most commonly it was wine or olive oil, milk, honey, and in India, ghee. The vessels used in the ritual, including the patera, often had a significant form which differentiated them from secular vessels. The liquid was poured onto something of religious significance. The libation was very often poured on the ground itself, as an offering to the Earth.