The religion of the ancient kingdom of Ghana was predominantly a form of polytheism, which involved the worship of multiple deities and spirits that governed various aspects of life and nature. The people of Ghana, particularly the Soninke ethnic group, believed in a supreme god who created the universe and was associated with the forces of nature.
In addition to the worship of a supreme deity, they also honored ancestral spirits and conducted rituals to appease various gods who represented different elements, such as agriculture, fertility, and warfare. These beliefs often included the use of sacrifices and offerings, and the practice of divination to seek guidance from these spiritual entities.
The kingdom maintained a complex relationship with Islam after it began to spread in the region around the 8th century. Though many rulers and traders converted to Islam, especially for trade benefits, traditional beliefs persisted among the broader population. This coexistence led to a unique blend of Islamic tenets with local customs and practices, creating a diverse spiritual landscape in ancient Ghana.