The Survival of Prehistorically Primitive Humans Without Religion

It is often assumed that prehistorically primitive humans lived without any form of religion or spiritual belief. However, recent archaeological findings suggest that ancient humans did indeed possess a complex set of beliefs, even if they were different from modern religions.

Understanding the Nature of Their Beliefs

Archaeological evidence reveals that early humans engaged in practices that we today would consider religious, even if their beliefs were quite different. In a burial site of a Neanderthal boy, for example, a large, heavy slab of stone was placed over the grave. On the underside of this stone, a simple carving of three dots in a triangular pattern was found. This carving, intentionally placed over the deceased's face, indicates a symbolic significance beyond mere burial rites.

A Look at Neanderthal Burials

Similarly, in another Neanderthal burial, valuable grave goods were found, including a woman or girl buried with jewelry and adornments made from exotic materials, such as a type of seashell not native to the area. These elaborate funerary practices suggest that Neanderthals believed in something more than just the physical process of burial. They likely believed in an afterlife, further indicating the presence of spiritual or religious beliefs.

Religion as a Human Construct

Religion, as we understand it today, is often seen as a specific human construct. However, other animals also exhibit behaviors that could be interpreted as religious, though we can’t discern the exact nature of these beliefs. Early humans had a profound connection with the natural world, observing patterns in nature, seasonal changes, and the movements of celestial bodies. Their beliefs were rooted in a belief in an animistic spirit in all things, which we have largely lost. Despite the absence of formal religions, early humans still found ways to express their spiritual beliefs and revered the natural world as a living force.

Survival Through Practical Science

While early humans certainly believed in the concept of magic and spiritual forces, the practical advances they made were the result of countless trials and errors, what we now call "science." From the earliest monuments to the construction of modern-day temples and churches, everything has been achieved through experimentation and innovation, not through divine intervention. Religions have come and gone, constantly adapting to new scientific discoveries, and often claiming credit for them without acknowledging their true origins.

Conclusion

It is not accurate to say that prehistorically primitive humans lived without any form of religion. They had their own unique set of beliefs and practices, even if they were different from the religions we know today. Their spiritual beliefs played a role in their survival, providing a sense of meaning and connection to the natural world. The misconception that primitive humans lived without religion is a reflection of our modern, often overly dichotomous, view of the world. Religion, as we know it, is a human construct, but the spirit of belief and wonder has always been a part of the human experience.