Students will identify the role religion played in the everyday lives of ordinary
Mesopotamians. They will recognize that Mesopotamian religion stressed ritual for the here
and now as opposed to any concern for the afterlife.
Make sufficient copies of the accompanying activity sheet so that each student has one.
Procedure
As an anticipatory set preceding a lesson on Ancient Mesopotamian culture or religion,
have students read and discuss "An Act of God" in cooperative teams.
The student teams should focus on the questions that are included with the story. The
entire class should discuss the situation to bring closure to the lesson.
Background
Ancient Mesopotamian religion revolved around a mythical theme of vengeful gods and
goddesses. Man was viewed as a slave to their every whim and, as such, was responsible for
keeping the gods happy. From exquisitely appointed temples and shrines to the continual
sacrifices of beer, grains, and fruit, Mesopotamians viewed their role on earth as one of
fulfilling the needs of the gods. The better they did this. The more successful their earthly
pursuits would be.
To this end, numerous methods of fortunetelling arose. Interpretation of dreams, astrology,
and the reading of animal organs were necessary measures in determining the will of the
gods. The present was stressed, in part, due to the dismal view the Mesopotamians had of the
afterlife.
The Mesopotamian view of immortality was a mere existence in some dingy underworld. It
was nothing to work toward or look forward to. Therefore, no great expense was utilized in
preparing the dead for burial. One's existence in the here and now was all that really
mattered. To be successful, the gods had to be placated.
The classroom teacher may reproduce copies of materials in this book for classroom use only.
The reproduction of any part for an entire school or school system is strictly prohibited. No
part of this publication may be transmitted, stored, or recorded in any form without written
permission from the publisher.
