Conquer It
In this activity, apply what you have learned to identify the characteristics of ancient civilizations.
Read the passage below and answer the question that follows. The passage is taken from historical writings from the ancient civilization of Mesopotamia.
From the land of the rising to the land of the setting sun.
O mountain, Lord of life, you are indeed Lord!
O Bel of the lands, Lord of life you yourself are Lord of life.
O mighty one, terrible one of heaven, you are guardian indeed!
O Bel, you are Lord of the gods indeed!
You are father, Bel, who cause the plants of the gardens to grow!
O Bel, your great glory may they fear!
The birds of heaven and the fish of the deep are filled with fear of you.
O father Bel, in great strength you go, prince of life, shepherd of the stars!
O Lord, the secret of production you open, the feast of fatness establish, to work you call!
Father Bel, faithful prince, mighty prince, you create the strength of life!
— Excerpt from A Collection of Babylonian Prayers c. 1600 BCE
Source: Ancient History Sourcebook, Fordham University Opens a new window
