Annexure-2: Incarnations of Lord Shiva in Harappan Relics

Long ago, depictions of Lord Shiva’s manifestations were discovered on seals excavated from villages surrounding Harappa in Bharat. These relics stand as monumental proof that the worship of Lord Shiva was deeply prevalent in this nation over 5,000 years ago.

The Etymology of Harappa

The name Harappa itself contains the word Hara, a well-known synonym for Lord Shiva.

Derived from the verbal root ‘Hri’, Hara signifies the Divine who brings the entire universe into dissolution (Pralaya), as well as the compassionate Lord who removes (harati) the afflictions of His devotees.

Key Archaeological Findings and Scriptural Parallels

1. The Pashupati Seal

A prominent seal discovered at Mohenjo-daro depicts a deity surrounded by beasts, giving rise to the name Pashupati (“Lord of Animals”)—a direct synonym for Lord Shiva (Amarakosha 1-30).

• The Sacred Ganges & Serpent: On the head of the deity rests a five-hooded serpent adorned with a gem (Mani). A spring emerges from the center of His head, symbolizing the river Ganges (Gangadhara).

• The Pranava Om: To the right side of the image, the sacred syllable Om (Aum) is present.

• Attributes: The figure is adorned with traditional ornaments, armor, and weapons.

       [ Archaeological Feature ] ───► [ Scriptural Parallel ]
       • Deity amidst beasts       ───► Pashupati (Namaka Mantras)
       • Water from head           ───► Gangadhara (Amara 1-35)
       • Sacred Syllable           ───► Tara / Aum (Taittiriya Aranyaka)

2. Debunking the “Three-Headed” & “Horned” Theories

While some historians previously labeled this depiction as a “three-headed” or “horned” figure:

• Single Head (Munda): There are not three heads, but rather a single bald head (History of Bharat throughout many centuries or generations, p. 21). The thousand names of Lord Shiva include the epithets Munda (bald-headed) and Vyuptakesha (Rudraadhyaya / Namaka).

• Vedic Form: The head structures are not horns, but represent the traditional form of Lord Rudra described in the Vedas (Sruti Saurabhamu & Sindhu Samskriti and Rudra in the Namaka, Veda Parishad Journal, Feb 2003).

Comparative Analysis: Relics vs. Scriptural Epithets

Conclusion

By correlating archaeological findings with the Vedas, Shiva Purana, Shiva Sahasranama, and Amara-Kosha, we find compelling evidence that the worship of Lord Shiva was an integral foundation of the Harappan civilization.