The Rest Is History 145. Babylon
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Jan 31, 2022 Discover the dual nature of ancient Babylon, a city celebrated for its beauty yet infamous for its corruption. Delve into the mythical origins of its civilization, shaped by the god Marduk and the essential elements of mud and water. Explore the grandeur of Babylon's architecture, like the iconic Ishtar Gate and the legendary Hanging Gardens. Reflect on its complex legacy, intertwining themes of power, faith, and resilience, and uncover how its story continues to influence contemporary Iraq and global perspectives.
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Babylon's Mud Origins
- Babylonians believed their civilization was fashioned from mud, citing Marduk creating the Esagila, the first building.
- Marduk, king of the gods, made a raft of reeds, covered it with dust, and mixed it with water to form primordial slime.
Babylon's Dual Nature
- Babylon is the heir to the birth of civilization, succeeding cities like Uruk and Ur.
- It's featured in Greek history and the Bible, portrayed as both glamorous and sinister.
Babylon's Location and Significance
- Babylon, founded around 1900 BC, is located in modern-day Iraq, south of Baghdad.
- The city's inhabitants viewed it as the center of the world and a gift from junior gods to senior gods.
