The place of religion in a north Indian village

Opler, Morris Edward

article

The place of religion in a north Indian village

Southwestern journal of anthropology • 15 (3) • Published In 1959 • Pages: 219-226

By: Opler, Morris Edward.

Abstract
This article discusses the role of religion, focusing on village Hinduism, in Senapur, a community of approximately 2000 people in 1955 in Uttar Pradesh, India. It shows that religion remained the alpha and omega of village life not so much because of any innate religiosity of villagers but due to its embeddedness to various aspects of local culture. To live a very full and estimable life, the article argues, a villager has to participate in the religious round. Religion justifies the continuity of a person's ties between his ancestors and his sons. Religion holds kin groups together through family rituals. It also provides travel, adventure, and new experience, and connects a villager with other villagers. Religion makes possible the rewarding of servants and dependents, facilitates property exchanges, and points to family status. It awakens courage and hope in areas of life where uncertainty and anxiety are most prevalent.

Community structure

Religious experience

Cultural identity and pride

Religious denominations

Organized ceremonial

Rest days and holidays

Puberty and initiation

Ceremonial during infancy and childhood

Gift giving

Burial practices and funerals

Mourning

Shamans and psychotherapists