4.7. Religious Life

Mother Goddess (fertility), Pashupati seal (proto-Shiva), worship of animals

The Harappan Civilisation had a rich belief system characterized by the worship of various deities. Notably, the Mother Goddess, representing fertility, was a central figure in their worship. The Pashupati seal, which is often associated with a proto-form of Shiva (a major Hindu deity), suggests that animal worship was also significant, indicating a reverence for both nature and animal life. This diverse pantheon shows that the religious beliefs of the Harappans were intricately linked to the aspects of life and nature.

Think of how in modern times many cultures may have figures related to nature or fertility, like Mother Nature, representing life-giving forces, or symbols of prosperity. For example, some communities may worship a deity associated with crops or seasons, much like the Harappans revered the Mother Goddess for fertility.

Sacred trees (Peepal), animals (bull), phallic symbols (lingam)

Religious symbolism played an essential role in the Harappan belief system. They revered natural elements such as sacred trees, particularly the Peepal tree, which is significant in many cultures as a symbol of knowledge and life. Animals, notably the bull, were also held in high regard, possibly due to their utility and significance in agrarian societies. Additionally, phallic symbols known as lingams point to the veneration of fertility and regeneration, emphasizing the connection to nature and life cycle within their belief system.

In many cultures, specific animals or plants are symbols of strength, prosperity, or other virtues. For instance, in Chinese culture, the dragon represents power and good fortune. Similarly, the Harappans’ use of animals and trees as symbols suggests a deep connection to their environment and spirituality.

No temples found; likely household or open-air worship

Unlike many contemporary civilizations, the Harappans did not build grand temples for worship. Instead, it is believed that they practiced their rituals at home or in open spaces. This suggests a more personal connection to their deities and a community-oriented approach to spirituality. The absence of temples might indicate a belief system where the divine was accessible and intimately tied to everyday life, rather than separated into grand, formal structures.

Consider how many families today might have small altars or spaces within their homes to honor personal beliefs or ancestors, rather than only visiting large temples or churches. This shows that spirituality can be an integral part of home life and not confined to grand public displays.

Practised burial and cremation; belief in afterlife inferred from grave goods

The Harappans had varied burial customs, including both burial and cremation practices. Archaeological findings suggest a belief in an afterlife, which is inferred from the grave goods found with the deceased. These goods, which may include pottery, ornaments, and tools, indicate that they believed the deceased would need items in the afterlife, reflecting how this civilization viewed death not as an end, but as a transition to another existence.

Similar to cultures today that include objects or mementos in graves, like in Egyptian culture where tombs were furnished for the afterlife, the Harappans’ practice of placing goods in graves reveals their ideas about death, care for their loved ones, and the continuation of life beyond death.

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