A History of Computing
A History of Computing The Precursors: Ideas and Mechanical Attempts (Before the 20th Century) The idea of a “computer” – a machine that can perform calculations automatically – is much older than the electronic devices we use today. Several crucial concepts and mechanical attempts laid the groundwork: Calculating Devices: Abacus (c. 2700-2300 BC): While not a […]
FINDING THE PAPER
The Invention and First Use of Paper: A Deeper Dive Place and Time: Contextualizing Early China: While we say “early 2nd century AD,” it’s important to understand the context. This was during the Han Dynasty in China, a period of significant technological and cultural advancement. Paper wasn’t a sudden invention, but likely evolved from earlier writing […]
Annunaki 9
Part 9: The Anunnaki – A Concluding Perspective and Enduring Legacy The Anunnaki, a group of deities central to ancient Mesopotamian mythology, have been the subject of a long and multifaceted journey of exploration. From their origins in Sumerian texts to their modern interpretations, from their roles in creation myths to their metaphorical representations of […]
Annunaki 8
Part 8: The Anunnaki as Metaphor – Power, Authority, and the Human Condition Stepping back from the literal interpretations of the Anunnaki as historical figures or extraterrestrial visitors, we can view them as powerful metaphors that illuminate enduring aspects of human experience. Their stories, even if not historically accurate, offer profound insights into the dynamics of power, […]
Annunaki 7
Part 7: The Anunnaki in Comparative Mythology – Parallels and Divergences The Anunnaki, while unique to Mesopotamian mythology, share certain characteristics with deities and divine groups found in other ancient cultures. Comparing and contrasting these figures can illuminate both the common threads of human religious experience and the distinctive features of specific cultural traditions. 1. […]
Annunaki 6
Part 6: The Legacy of the Anunnaki – Echoes in Later Traditions and Enduring Questions The stories and beliefs surrounding the Anunnaki did not disappear with the decline of the ancient Mesopotamian civilizations. Their influence can be traced in various ways, both directly and indirectly, in later cultures and traditions. Moreover, the fundamental questions raised […]
Annunaki 5
Part 5: The Anunnaki and the Mesopotamian Worldview – Gods, Humans, and the Cosmos The myths and stories surrounding the Anunnaki are not just fantastical tales; they are windows into the deeply held beliefs and values of the ancient Mesopotamians. By examining these narratives, we can gain insights into their understanding of the universe, their […]
Annunaki 4
Part 4: The Anunnaki in the Modern Age – Ancient Astronauts, Misinterpretations, and the Search for Meaning The Anunnaki, like many figures from ancient mythology, have experienced a resurgence of interest in the modern era. However, this renewed attention has often taken a drastically different turn from the scholarly understanding of their role in Mesopotamian […]
Annunaki 3
Part 3: The Shifting Sands of Divinity – The Anunnaki’s Evolving Identity and the Problem of Interpretation Understanding the Anunnaki is like piecing together a fragmented mosaic. Our knowledge comes from a vast collection of texts spanning millennia, written in different languages (Sumerian, Akkadian), and reflecting evolving religious beliefs and political agendas. This makes defining […]
Annunaki 2
Part 2: The Anunnaki in Mesopotamian Myths and Texts The Anunnaki appear in a variety of Sumerian, Akkadian, Assyrian, and Babylonian texts, including myths, epics, hymns, incantations, and royal inscriptions. Here are some of the most important sources and the roles the Anunnaki play within them: The Atra-Hasis Epic: This is one of the most […]