What role did religious symbolism play in Dogon house compounds in Mali?

In Dogon culture, religious symbolism is deeply integrated into the design and layout of house compounds, reflecting a complex metaphysical system.12

The Dogon traditionally perceive the dwelling compound anthropomorphically, viewing it as a representation of a man lying on his side in the act of procreation. Within this symbolic framework:2
* The hearth is associated with the man's head.2
* The stores represent his arms.2
* The stables correspond to his legs.2
* The central workroom symbolizes his belly.2
* The grinding stones are linked to his genitalia.2

Beyond the individual house, this religious symbolism extends to the entire village plan, where every element is designed to reflect these spiritual associations. Additionally, the Dogon construct totemic sanctuaries with zoomorphic forms dedicated to their ancestors. While these interpretations—largely documented by Marcel Griaule—have been significant in understanding Dogon architecture, it is important to note that this scholarship remains a subject of ongoing debate and revision among researchers.2