Education is not just about the basic subjects such as Math and English, it is also about teaching students about the ancient civilizations that molded society. In this case, students should also be taught about the Mesopotamian civilization, particularly the temples that served as a crucial institution in the community.
Mesopotamian temples were considered the religious and political center of their communities. These temples were built in the form of a pyramid, with the top of the temple holding a shrine to a deity. These deities were seen as essential to the community, and thus, offerings and sacrifices were made to satisfy their needs and desires.
In educating students about the Mesopotamian temple, it is important to first provide context on the civilization. Students should know that Mesopotamia was one of the earliest civilizations in the world, and it was located in what is now modern-day Iraq. It emerged around 4000 B.C. and lasted until the 6th century B.C. It was during this time that the Sumerian and Babylonian empires emerged and established their power in the region.
The Mesopotamian temples were not only a place of worship but were also responsible for administering justice in the community. Priests and priestesses held significant power and were respected figures in Mesopotamian society. They were responsible for carrying out the temple ceremonies, managing the temples’ wealth, and leading the community.
One way to introduce students to the temples is through visual aids such as pictures and diagrams. This will help students gain a better understanding of the design and function of the temples. Teachers can also use primary sources such as cuneiform tablets to provide students with insight into the daily life of the people who lived during this time.
Students can also learn about the significance of certain deities in Mesopotamian culture. For instance, Marduk was seen as the patron god of the Babylonian empire. The temple dedicated to Marduk was built in the city of Babylon and was one of the largest and most magnificent structures in the empire. Students can learn about the rituals performed in this temple and how Marduk was celebrated.
Teaching students about the Mesopotamian temple can promote cultural awareness and highlight the importance of institutions such as religion and politics in ancient societies. It also provides a platform for discussing modern-day religious institutions and how they impact contemporary society. By learning about the past, students can better appreciate the present and shape the future.
