Ancient Civilizations And Their Locations Questions Medium
The religious beliefs and practices of the Indus Valley people, also known as the Harappan civilization, are not fully understood due to the lack of deciphered written records. However, archaeological evidence provides some insights into their religious practices.
The Indus Valley people seem to have had a complex religious system with a focus on fertility and nature worship. They revered a mother goddess, often depicted with exaggerated breasts and a headdress, suggesting her association with fertility and abundance. This goddess figure is commonly referred to as the "Mother Goddess" or the "Great Goddess."
The presence of numerous terracotta figurines, often depicting female figures, suggests that the worship of fertility and motherhood played a significant role in their religious beliefs. These figurines have been found in various contexts, including homes, suggesting that they were part of household rituals.
The Indus Valley people also had a strong connection with animals, as evidenced by the presence of animal figurines and seals depicting animals. Some of these animals, such as the bull and the unicorn, may have held symbolic significance in their religious practices.
The discovery of fire altars and sacrificial pits suggests that rituals involving fire and possibly animal sacrifices were also part of their religious practices. The presence of ritual bathing areas, known as "Great Baths," indicates the importance of purification rituals in their religious ceremonies.
It is important to note that the lack of deciphered written records makes it challenging to fully understand the religious beliefs and practices of the Indus Valley people. However, the archaeological evidence suggests that their religious system revolved around fertility, nature worship, and possibly animal and fire rituals.