History Extra podcast Gods, demons, witches and exorcists: inside an ancient Assyrian library
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May 15, 2025 Selena Wisnom, an expert in ancient Mesopotamia and author of The Library of Ancient Wisdom, guides listeners through the fascinating world of the Assyrian library created by King Ashurbanipal. She uncovers how this monumental collection reveals Assyrian beliefs about gods and the supernatural, along with the complexities of their religious practices. The discussion covers everything from divine communication, offerings, and demon beliefs, to the intriguing legacy of the lost library and the scientific insights of ancient civilizations.
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Ashurbanipal's Brutal Displays of Power
- Ashurbanipal displayed his power by humiliating enemies, like making a defeated king wear a dog collar and guard the gate.
- His palace carvings show brutal punishments to warn others against defying Assyria.
Library as Empire Knowledge Hub
- Ashurbanipal's library collected diverse knowledge needed to rule a vast empire, including literature, magic, medicine, and ritual.
- The library blends practical governance with esoteric wisdom, reflecting the king's scholarly ambitions.
Divine Anger and Contagious Guilt
- The Assyrians believed misfortune meant gods were angry and required atonement through rituals and prayers.
- Guilt was contagious; you could offend gods unknowingly and need exorcists to restore favor.
