Sacred Symbols |
Symbolism is used in every religion. In Ancient Mesopotamia their religious beliefs were expressed mostly through statues, sculptures and stone/rock tablets with inscriptions.
|
Sacred SpaceThe Ancient Mesopotamian's sacred space were spaces of worship. Worship took place in temples which were often considered the most important buildings in the city.
The larger temples were called Ziggurats. The word 'ziggurat' means to build on a raised area. The largest of these temples were 7 stories high (300 ft)! They were built this high so that the shine to the Gods on the top level could be as close to the heavens as possible. The Ziggurats were thought to be the place where the patron God of the city resided. They were created to worship the Gods, and so became a place where rituals and sacrifices to the Gods took place. |
Sacred Time |
In Ancient Mesopotamian religion, sacred rituals would occur in the morning as day broke, This was also important for any temple rituals as well, Any festivals would occur once a month according to their lunar calendar.
A crescent moon would mark the beginning of a new month, therefore nightfall would be the beginning of the day for Mesopotamian people. A month is then further divided according to lunar phases; New moon (day 1), first quarter moon (on day 6-7) and then a full moon (14-16). These three days mark monthly festivals. Although worship was done publicly with others at certain times, those wishing too be more intimate with the Gods could worship quietly in their own time However, at all times people were too be responsible and treat the Gods with the up most respect. |