When did religion actually begin? Journey deep into humanity's prehistoric past and explore one of the most difficult questions in archaeology and anthropology: when did humans first develop beliefs about gods, spirits, death, and the supernatural?
This episode examines the earliest evidence for ritual behavior and symbolic thought, from intentional burials and ochre use to prehistoric art, figurines, sacred spaces, and monumental sites. Explore discoveries associated with Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens and consider what they can—and cannot—tell us about the beliefs of our ancestors.
Discover sites such as Göbekli Tepe and other prehistoric ritual landscapes, while examining the possibility that religious practices may have existed long before temples, cities, or organized priesthoods.
The episode also explores competing theories about why religious behavior emerged. Did beliefs in supernatural forces help early humans cooperate, cope with death, understand nature, or strengthen social bonds? Or are modern concepts of "religion" simply difficult to apply to prehistoric societies?
Drawing on archaeology, anthropology, cognitive science, evolutionary research, and prehistoric evidence, this immersive journey separates established discoveries from speculation and examines what we can realistically know about the origins of human spirituality.
Narrated with a calm, human voice, this episode is perfect for listeners interested in prehistoric history, archaeology, anthropology, religion, human evolution, mythology, philosophy, relaxation, or listening before sleep.