The Ancient Near Eastern Mythology and Religion

This work explores the profound and lasting influence of the ancient Near East on the development of religious, cultural, and philosophical thought, with a particular focus on the transition from polytheism to monotheism. The religious systems of the region, including those of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Canaan, and Persia, have shaped foundational ideas about divine authority, justice, morality, the afterlife, and the nature of the cosmos.
Through the study of primary texts, archaeological findings, and scholarly analysis, this study delves into the key religious concepts that emerged in the ancient Near East, including divine kingship, ethical monotheism, and the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. The analysis examines how these early theological ideas were absorbed, adapted, and transformed by subsequent religious movements, most notably Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and how these traditions continue to influence modern religious thought and cultural practices.
By tracing the continuity and adaptation of ancient Near Eastern religious concepts through the lens of these major religious systems, the work highlights how early mythologies, legal systems, and ethical principles shaped the intellectual framework of both the Western and Eastern worlds. From the Sumerian conception of divine law in the Code of Hammurabi to the monotheistic reforms in ancient Israel, this study provides a detailed exploration of how religious ideas from the ancient Near East were transmitted across time, shaping the development of global religions and ethical systems.
It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnections between ancient religious practices and modern philosophical and theological frameworks, demonstrating the enduring legacy of the ancient Near East in shaping the cultural, religious, and intellectual heritage of humanity.