Bruno Pugh
The Babylonian Map of the World, dating back to around the 6th century BCE (Neo-Babylonian period), is one of the oldest known world maps. Carved on a clay tablet, it offers a unique glimpse into how the Babylonians perceived their place in the cosmos.
Cosmology and Cultural Beliefs
The map depicts the world as a flat disc surrounded by a “bitter river”(symbolic of the ocean). More than scientific, it’s a cosmological display of the world. Babylonians believed the universe was structured in this way, with the heavens above and the underworld below. This map is a key map of that widespread ancient Near Eastern belief.
Myth and Imagination in Babylonian Life
They never had the scientific tools we have today, so they used stories and mythology to explain the world beyond their experience. The map depicts doodles of mythical places and creatures that represent the Babylonians’ attempts to understand the unknown. Its triangular shapes possibly represent mountains or distant lands and descriptions of mythical beings.
Babylon as the Center of the World
Unsurprisingly, Babylon is placed squarely in the center of the map. This could be a way to conveniently draw the map, or it could imply the Babylonians’ deep-seated belief that their city was the center of the world, both politically and spiritually. The “center of the world” concept (sometimes called axis mundi) is common in many ancient cultures.
Trade and Regional Awareness
This map includes recognizable features like the Euphrates River, which runs through Babylon. It also labels nearby regions and cities, suggesting some level of geographical knowledge beyond their immediate surroundings. While not a precise survey map, it indicates an awareness of trade routes and neighboring peoples, key for a powerful city-state like Babylon.
Religion’s Role in Geography
There are strong references to gods and mythical creatures. This reinforces the larger belief that for the Babylonians, geography went beyond physical locations; it was deeply rooted in their religious beliefs. The world was divinely ordained, and its features were often associated with specific deities.
Power and Propaganda
Centering Babylon served as visual propaganda that asserted its dominance and importance to both internal and external audiences. It reinforced their political and cultural power, projecting an image of Babylon as the center of the world. Externally, the grandeur of Babylon projected an image of invincibility and cultural superiority to rival nations and potential adversaries.
Education and Knowledge Transfer
It’s likely the map had an educational function, used by scribes or priests to teach about the world and Babylonian cosmology. This was a way of transmitting knowledge and reinforcing cultural values to future generations. Notably, the map is a tangible piece of their intellectual and cultural heritage.
Art and Utility
The Babylonian map, etched onto a clay tablet, exemplifies the dual nature of their cultural achievements—melding function with artistry. It shows the precision and expertise of Babylonian scribes, who combined cartographic utility with aesthetic appeal. The detailed depictions, symmetrical layouts, and inscriptions reveal an appreciation for visual harmony.
Cultural Pride in Exploration (and Imagination)
A mix of known and mythical places shows the Babylonians’ curiosity about the world. While their “exploration” included mythical realms, it reflects a desire to understand their place in the larger scheme of things. This shows a society eager to define its place in the cosmos, intertwining empirical observations with the rich fabric of storytelling.
Preserving a Moment in Babylonian Culture
The Babylonian Map of the World offers a unique snapshot of a long-lost civilization. It provides invaluable insights into their worldview, beliefs, and how they perceived their place in the world. It’s a revelation of their intellectual and cultural achievements and a valuable artifact for understanding the ancient world.