Religion in Mesopotamia Flashcard

Front

What is the term for the belief in multiple gods in Mesopotamian religion?

Back

polytheism

Front

Name two important gods or goddesses in Mesopotamian polytheistic beliefs.

Back

Anu and Inanna

Front

What was the religious significance of ziggurats in Mesopotamia?

Back

They were religious temples

Front

How did ziggurats function as a link between the people and the gods?

Back

Ziggurats were believed to be the physical homes of the gods, and the priests would climb to the top to communicate with the gods on behalf of the people.

Front

What was the role of priests in Mesopotamian society?

Back

Performing religious rituals, interpreting omens, and communicating with the gods

Front

What were the duties of priestesses in Mesopotamian religious practices?

Back

Performing rituals, maintaining temples, and serving as intermediaries between the people and the gods

Front

What are some of the key elements of Mesopotamian creation myths?

Back

Belief in multiple gods, concept of chaos and order, creation of humans from clay, and existence of a great flood.

Front

Name one famous epic literature from Mesopotamia that has religious significance.

Back

Epic of Gilgamesh

Front

How did religion impact the daily life of people in Mesopotamia?

Back

It influenced their daily rituals, prayers, and beliefs in multiple gods.

Front

Give an example of a religious ritual or practice that was part of daily life in Mesopotamia.

Back

Offering sacrifices to the gods