Humans are inherently scared of the things that they don't understand. Death is the eternal mystery, so to offer comfort and some power to influence the level of fear, stories were created. That's region in a nutshell.
Gods explained the world around us that was yet to be understood, such as volcanoes, avalanches, storms and earthquakes. The concepts of heaven and hell are largely used as a method of control.
Threatening children with "the fiery pits of hell" is essentially abusive. But it's important they're indoctrinated good and young. The elders (and betters

) can't have people thinking for themselves and having potential clarity. Know your place peasants!!
Not so long ago (still the case in some places) suicide was illegal. HaHa!! Good luck prosecuting the dead.
That's how silly the idea that adhering to rules dictated by the clergy, is. Or confessing to a fella in a dress who can provide absolution. First rate bullshit.