REL/JSP 302 Second Temple Judaism

Ancient Near Eastern Temples

Readings questions on handout: Robertson, “Social and Economic Impact of Ancient Mesopotamian Temples,” CANE 1:443-54.

As you explore the reasons John Robertson gives for why “temples of ancient Mesopotamia were powerful factors in the society and economy of ancient Mesopotamian urban communities” (p. 443), consider:

1. What social, economic and political forces do you suppose led to the growth and power of large temple complexes in societies ancient Near Eastern societies?
2. Why do you think religious devotion and expression so often takes economic form (e.g. in gifts to the gods and their temples)?
3. Why do you suppose large temple complexes disappeared later in Western history?