History Ancient India Questions Medium
The religious beliefs and practices of the Indus Valley people are not fully understood due to the lack of deciphered written records from that time. However, archaeological evidence provides some insights into their religious practices.
The Indus Valley people seem to have had a complex religious system, as evidenced by the presence of numerous figurines and seals depicting various deities. These deities are often depicted in a seated or standing position, sometimes surrounded by animals or symbols. The most famous of these figurines is the "Priest-King," suggesting the presence of a priestly class or religious leaders.
The presence of fire altars and the discovery of terracotta models of what appear to be ritual bathing platforms indicate that fire worship and ritual bathing may have been important aspects of their religious practices. Additionally, the discovery of animal remains, such as bulls and unicorns, suggests that animal worship or the belief in sacred animals may have been part of their religious beliefs.
The Indus Valley people also had a strong connection to nature, as seen in the depiction of trees and animals on their seals and pottery. This suggests a possible reverence for nature and a belief in the divine presence within the natural world.
Overall, while the exact religious beliefs and practices of the Indus Valley people remain uncertain, the archaeological evidence suggests a complex religious system that involved the worship of deities, fire, animals, and a connection to nature.