Babylon: History, Achievements, and Religion

These flashcards cover the history, achievements, and religious practices of Babylon, providing a comprehensive overview for exam preparation.

What are the origins of Babylon?

The city begins with the Sumerians and Akkadians in the Akkadian Period.

In which year was Babylon first mentioned?

c. 2300 BCE.

What does 'Bābili(m)' mean?

Gate of the Gods.

What river is Babylon located along?

Euphrates River.

What time period does the Old Babylonian Period cover?

c. 2300 BCE - 1792 BCE.

Which empire followed the Old Babylonian Period?

The Babylonian Empire from c. 1792 BCE - 1750 BCE.

What significant event occurred in Babylon in 1595 BCE?

It was conquered during the Middle Babylonian Period.

What was the duration of the Babylonian Civilization?

1700 years.

Who conquered Babylon?

Alexander the Great.

During which period did Sargon rule Babylon?

The origins of the city, influenced by Akkadian, Kassite, and Amorite Rule.

Who was the first ruler of Babylon?

Sumuabum.

What major achievement is associated with Babylonian religion?

Divination, predicting actions of the gods.

What is divination?

The practice of using omens to predict the future.

What ancient structure is dedicated to Marduk?

Etemenanki, the ziggurat.

What narrative form is an etiology?

A narrative designed to explain the cause of something.

What were Babylon's city walls made from?

Mudbricks and a type of cement made from reeds.

What were the Ishtar Gates associated with?

The city's eighth and main gate.

What material was used for the Ishtar Gates?

Faience.

What does faience refer to?

A glazing technique developed in Mesopotamia.

What was the Processional Way in Babylon?

A large street leading to the temple complex.

What were the Hanging Gardens of Babylon?

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was mythically built for Queen Amytis.

What was the Akitu festival?

A New Year festival dedicated to the chief deity of Babylon.

Who was Marduk?

The chief deity of the Babylonian pantheon.

What major legislation did Hammurabi enact?

The Code of Hammurabi.

When did Hammurabi become king?

In 1792 BCE.

What happened during the Babylonian occupation years?

Babylon was sacked and then briefly occupied by the Kassites.

What was significant about King Nabopolassar?

He took over Babylon and initiated its Golden Age.

What did Nebuchadnezzar II accomplish?

He expanded borders and made Babylon a center of learning.

What influence did the Code of Hammurabi have?

It influenced many civilizations and the Hebrew Bible.

How many laws did the Code of Hammurabi comprise?

282 laws.

In which manner were the laws of Hammurabi displayed?

On monoliths throughout the Empire.