A day in the life of an ancient Babylonian business mogul | Soraya Field Fiorio

In 1762 BCE, Beltani, a Naditu priestess and businesswoman, faces a crisis when her brother accuses her tavern keeper of diluting wine, a crime punishable by death. Unable to visit the tavern herself, Beltani investigates by meeting the tavern keeper at the Temple of Shamash. She learns her brother has been cheating customers and mismanaging her properties. With evidence from her barley fields, Beltani takes the matter to temple court, where she successfully removes her brother as her business manager, protecting her income and sparing his life. She considers adopting a younger priestess to help manage her affairs.

What is the significance of Beltani's status as a Naditu in Babylonia?

What accusations does Beltani's brother make against the tavern keeper?

How does Beltani find evidence of her brother's dishonesty?

What actions does Beltani take in the temple court regarding her brother?

What considerations does Beltani have for her future at the end of the story?