Introduction
The discovery of a large number of seals at Mohenjo-daro has provided crucial insights into the religious world view of the people of the Indus Valley Civilization. These seals are considered among the most valuable archaeological finds because they offer symbolic representations of beliefs and practices in the absence of deciphered written records.
Body
Many seals depict figures associated with nature worship, highlighting the importance of animals, trees and fertility in Indus religion. The famous Pashupati seal, showing a horned deity seated in a yogic posture surrounded by animals, suggests the worship of a proto-Shiva figure and reflects early forms of asceticism and yogic practices. This indicates a deep spiritual connection with nature and self-discipline.
Several seals also feature animals such as the unicorn, bull, elephant and rhinoceros, which may have served as totemic symbols or sacred representations of clans and deities. The frequent depiction of mother goddess imagery on seals and associated artefacts points towards fertility worship, emphasizing agricultural prosperity and regeneration.
Conclusion
Thus, the seals of Mohenjo-daro are invaluable in reconstructing the religious beliefs of the Indus people. They reveal a complex system of nature worship, fertility cults and proto-ascetic traditions, making seals a key source for understanding the spiritual life of the civilization.