The drought of 2200 BCE: a landmark event in Vedic cosmology

The Seven Rivers Civilization, also known as the Indus-Sarasvati Civilization, was one of the oldest and most advanced civilizations in history. Around 2200 BCE, this civilization went through a period of great drought. This significant event not only had material consequences, such as agricultural decline, but it also affected the spiritual and ritual beliefs of the time, particularly around Soma.

Soma and Rain Dependence

In the Vedic texts, Soma is a sacred drink, considered a divine nectar that allowed one to reach states of spiritual enlightenment and communion with the gods. The production of this beverage was closely dependent on climatic conditions, particularly rain. Indeed, Soma is said to come from an entheogenic mushroom (psilocybe cubensis) that grew in humid and fertile environments. The drought therefore led to a shortage of Soma, which had a profound impact on the rituals and spiritual life of the civilization of the 7 rivers.

Indra, strength, energy, storm and liberation of waters

In Vedic cosmology, Indra plays a central role as deified rain and storms. He is the protector of the natural order and the provider of abundance. During droughts, the hymns of the Rig Veda invoked Indra to release the retained waters and bring rain. These prayers show how water was vital not only for material survival, but also for the maintenance of spiritual practices, such as the consumption of Soma during sacrifices.

A material and spiritual crisis

The drought of 2200 BCE probably upset the established balances. The rivers of the region, especially the Sarasvati, began to dry up, which reduced the fertile lands and disrupted agriculture. Without rain, crops did not thrive and the Soma plant became increasingly rare. This situation must have caused a spiritual crisis, because Vedic rituals relied heavily on the presence of this sacred drink. The absence of Soma could be interpreted as a sign of an imbalance in the cosmic order.

The symbolism of drought

The drought of 2200 BCE was not only a climatic phenomenon. In Vedic cosmology, it also represented a spiritual ordeal. The forces of nature were seen as expressions of the divine, and every climatic change was meaningful. The lack of rain was a reminder of the importance of harmony between humans, gods, and nature. Rituals, prayers, and sacrifices were aimed at restoring this balance, particularly by honoring Indra for releasing the beneficial waters.

Conclusion

The drought of 2200 BCE left its mark on the history of the 7 Rivers civilization. More than just a period of scarcity, it highlighted the profound relationship between humans, the divine, and the natural elements. The shortage of Soma, due to the absence of rain, was a moment of rupture that probably inspired hymns and rituals dedicated to Indra and the forces of nature. This episode reminds us that, for the ancients, climate was inseparable from the spiritual and the order of the world.