The Dawn of the Islamic Era: The Ancient Wisdom and New Life of Mesopotamia翁琴In the year 642 AD, the Arab iron hooves swept across Mesopotamia, ushering in a new chapter for the ancient "land between the rivers." The land that once nurtured Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria was revitalized under the baptism of Islamic civilization. Baghdad, the rising "City of Peace," became a beacon of culture and wisdom in the Islamic world. Cuneiform gradually faded into the annals of history, but the ancient wisdom of Mesopotamia did not perish; instead, it integrated into the vast civilization of Islam in a new form. How did ancient knowledge find life in a new era? Let us delve into this history and explore how the wisdom of Mesopotamia blossomed in the soil of Islam.
Parthian and Sasanian Periods: Continuation and Dilution of Mesopotamian Heritage翁琴Mesopotamia, the fertile land of the two river basins, was once the cradle of human civilization, nurturing brilliant empires such as Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria. However, over time, the central position of this land gradually weakened, especially under the rule of the Parthian Empire (circa 141 BC – 224 AD) and the Sassanian Empire (circa 224 AD – 642 AD), as the glory of Babylon gradually faded and Sumerian-Babylonian culture was gradually absorbed and integrated into Persian and Iranian traditions. This article will explore how the Parthian and Sassanian empires, while continuing the legacy of Mesopotamia, diminished its unique brilliance, and trace back to the earlier rise of Nabopolassar, revealing how he led the Chaldean tribes to end Assyrian hegemony, laying the groundwork for later historical changes.
The New Babylonian Empire (3): The Rise and Fall of the Empire and Nabonidus' Religious Reforms翁琴The Neo-Babylonian Empire, brief yet brilliant, was like a shooting star over the Mesopotamian plains. It rose briefly from 626 BC to 539 BC, inheriting the legacy of the Assyrian Empire, but fell quietly amidst the whirlpool of religion and politics. Nabonidus, the last king of the empire, left a vivid mark on the end of this period with his unique religious reforms and controversial ruling style. His 17-year reign was both a fervent expression of personal belief and a catalyst for the empire's collapse. Meanwhile, looking back at the beginnings of Neo-Babylon, the rise of Nabopolassar is equally impressive; he grew from a leader of the Chaldean tribe to the founder who ended Assyrian hegemony, paving the way for the empire's glory. This article will delve into how Nabopolassar established Neo-Babylon and how Nabonidus's religious reforms laid the groundwork for the empire's downfall.
The New Babylonian Empire (2): Nebuchadnezzar II and the Eternal Symbol翁琴On the vast plains of Mesopotamia, rivers nurtured civilization, and cities wrote history. In this ancient land, the Neo-Babylonian Empire shone like a dazzling star, reaching unparalleled brilliance under the rule of Nebuchadnezzar II (circa 605 BC – 562 BC). His era was not only a legend of military conquest and imperial expansion but also the pinnacle of cultural prosperity and architectural marvels. Nebuchadnezzar II's constructions, such as the Hanging Gardens, the Ishtar Gate, and the restored Tower of Babel, became eternal symbols of Babylon, telling the story of the city's glory and dreams. The starting point of all this cannot be separated from his father Nabopolassar, a leader who rose from the Chaldean tribe, who ended Assyrian hegemony with wisdom and courage, paving the way for the rise of Neo-Babylon.
Persian Achaemenid Period: The Heritage of Mesopotamia and the Fusion of Empires翁琴In the grand tapestry of human civilization, the Persian Achaemenid Empire (approximately 539 BC to 331 BC) wrote breathtaking chapters with its unprecedented territory and inclusive governance. This vast expanse, stretching from the Indus River to the Aegean Sea, was not only a product of military conquest but also a melting pot of cultural fusion. Mesopotamia, the ancient land "between the two rivers," shone with new brilliance within the Persian Empire as the cradle of civilization. Cyrus the Great and Darius I, these two key figures, skillfully integrated the legacy of Mesopotamia into the framework of the Persian Empire with wisdom and determination, creating a powerful and diverse empire. At the same time, reflecting on how the earlier Chaldean leader Nabopolassar ended Assyrian hegemony also provides a historical context for understanding how Mesopotamia became part of the Persian Empire.
Babylon in the Hellenistic Period: The Fusion of Cultures and the Rise and Fall of the City翁琴In 331 BC, when Alexander the Great's Macedonian army entered the gates of Babylon, this ancient Mesopotamian city welcomed a new chapter. Babylon, a city once famous for its Hanging Gardens and magnificent temples, underwent dramatic cultural and political changes during the Hellenistic period (approximately 331 BC to 141 BC). Alexander's conquest not only ended the rule of the Persian Empire but also brought Greek culture into the heart of Mesopotamia. Subsequently, the establishment of the Seleucid Empire continued this influence, with the fusion of Greek and local traditions shaping a unique cultural landscape. However, over time, Babylon's brilliance gradually faded, ultimately becoming a secondary city in the Hellenistic world. This article will explore how the Hellenistic period transformed the cultural landscape of Mesopotamia and trace how the earlier rise of Nabopolassar laid the foundation for Babylon's revival.
Why is the Russian emperor called Tsar?pypy nguyenThe Tsar was born with the meaning of an emperor blessed by God, on par with the Caesar of Rome. Unlike European titles such as king or emperor, the Tsar carries a unique identity closely tied to Orthodoxy and Russian culture.
Why did the Ming dynasty have up to 100,000 eunuchs?lalala nguyenIn Chinese history, the Ming dynasty is famous for its splendor lasting over 270 years. But alongside the glory, the Ming also left behind a shocking number, about 100,000 eunuchs serving in the palace.
"Enchanted by the Dream of Green Fields" by Xie Luyi's Self-Narration 3耿燊Listen to the mixed-race Chinese and English child recount their father's experiences.
Why did Uncle Ho not forgive Tran Du Chau for the "death" penalty?Fadilll NguyenMore than 70 years ago in the Viet Bac war zone, a special trial took place that shocked public opinion at the time. It was the case of Tran Du Chau, the former director of the Department of Logistics, who was tried for corruption, embezzlement of public funds, and committing many immoral acts. This was the first anti-corruption case of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. An event that not only demonstrated the iron determination of the young revolutionary government in cleaning up the apparatus but also served as a profound historical lesson about the resolute fight against corruption at any stage.
The New Babylonian Empire (1): The Rise of Nabopolassar and the Flames of the End of Assyria翁琴On the vast lands of Mesopotamia, history flows like a river, nurturing the rise and fall of countless empires. In the late seventh century BC, the iron hooves of the Assyrian Empire trampled this land, and the glory of Nineveh was at its zenith. However, a new force quietly rose from the south, igniting the flames of Babylon's revival. The leader of this force was Nabopolassar—a leader of Chaldean origin, who, with his tenacity and wisdom, overthrew Assyrian hegemony and established the Neo-Babylonian Empire. His story is not only a personal legend but also a turning point in Mesopotamian civilization.
The Neo-Assyrian Empire (2): The Cultural Beacon of Ashurbanipal and the Twilight of the Empire翁琴In the vast lands of ancient Mesopotamia, the Assyrian Empire wrote a magnificent chapter of human civilization with its iron-blooded conquests and grand culture. At the peak of the Neo-Assyrian period (approximately 911 BC – 609 BC), a king named Ashurbanipal took the stage of history. He ruled for about 41 years (approximately 668 BC – 627 BC), renowned not only for military victories and imperial expansion but also remembered by later generations for establishing the Library of Nineveh. This library served as a beacon, illuminating Mesopotamia's intellectual heritage and providing a precious window into the thoughts and cultures of the ancient world. However, his era was also the twilight of the empire, with cracks hidden behind the splendor, and the shadows of rebellion and decline quietly approaching.
The Neo-Assyrian Empire (1): The Majesty and Terror of Ashurnasirpal II翁琴The Neo-Assyrian Empire (circa 911 BC – 609 BC) was one of the most powerful empires in ancient Near Eastern history, and its rise was inseparable from the rule of a series of strong monarchs. Among them, Ashurnasirpal II (reigned 883 BC – 859 BC) laid the foundation for the empire's peak with his military conquests, administrative reforms, and grand architecture. His reign not only expanded Assyria's territory but also vividly showcased the empire's majesty and terror through the new capital at Kalhu (modern Nimrud) and its magnificent palaces. This article will focus on how the palace of Ashurnasirpal II, through architecture, art, and symbolism, demonstrated the power and intimidation of the Assyrian Empire, while also reflecting the king's style of governance.
The Assyrian Period in Central Asia (1): The Conquest Storm of Tiglath-Pileser I翁琴During the Assyrian period (around 1114 BC – 1076 BC), the land of Mesopotamia was filled with the sound of war drums and swirling dust. A king named Tiglath-Pileser I rose to the stage of history, and with unparalleled military talent and reforming spirit, he pushed the Assyrian Empire from a marginal state to a regional powerhouse. His reign was like a storm sweeping in, reshaping the power dynamics of Mesopotamia and laying a solid foundation for the later Neo-Assyrian Empire. Let us traverse the mists of time and enter the legendary era of this iron-willed king, exploring how his conquests changed the face of the ancient world.
The Post-Cassite Period (3): Marduk-Nadin-Ah's Babylon - Glory Under the Sunset翁琴In the long history of the Mesopotamian region, the city of Babylon has played a leading role countless times in the rise and fall of civilizations. Its glory and decline, like the waves of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, record the splendor and struggles of human civilization. In the post-Kassite period (approximately 1155 BC – 1000 BC), Babylon entered a challenging phase, and Marduk-nadin-ahhe (approximately 1099 BC – 1082 BC), the sixth king of the Second Isin Dynasty, was attempting to maintain the last glimmer of Babylon's independence at this historical turning point. His reign was like a struggle under the setting sun, filled with both nostalgia for past glory and helplessness in the face of internal and external pressures. This article will explore Marduk-nadin-ahhe's reign and how he endeavored to sustain Babylon's independence and dignity under the dual pressures of Assyrian invasion and internal turmoil.
"Enchanted by the Green Field Dream" by Xie Luyi's Self-Narration 2耿燊Listen to the mixed-race Chinese and English child recount their father's experiences.
What is the Vietnamese music prodigy "little Chau" like now?pypy nguyenAt just 5 years old, this chubby boy with a bowl haircut and an innocent smile has already been able to earn enough money to buy a car and purchase a four-story house in the center of Ho Chi Minh City.
The Neo-Babylonian Period (2): Nebuchadnezzar I: The Light of the Babylonian Revival in the Neo-Babylonian Period翁琴In the long history of ancient Mesopotamia, Babylon experienced multiple rises and falls amidst the tides of prosperity and decline. In the post-Kassite period (around 1125 BC – 1104 BC), this ancient city welcomed a brief yet brilliant moment of revival after enduring the decline of the Kassite dynasty and invasions from external enemies. The central figure of this revival was Nebuchadnezzar I of the Second Isin Dynasty, a king renowned for his military victories, cultural promotion, and religious revival. His reign not only brought political stability to Babylon but also paved the way for a brief period of glory through a series of cultural and religious efforts. This article will explore how Nebuchadnezzar I's victories created conditions for Babylon's cultural revival, showcasing the profound impact of this king during the post-Kassite period through his military achievements, religious reforms, and the flourishing of literature and art.
During the Babylonian period (1): Gandis: The wind of the Kassites blows into Babylon翁琴In the long history of the Mesopotamian region, the city of Babylon shone like a brilliant pearl, bearing the glory of Sumerian and Akkadian civilizations. However, in the early 16th century BC, this city experienced turmoil and rebirth. The brief invasion by the Hittites destroyed Hammurabi's dynasty, and Babylon's glory seemed to fade in the flames of war. At this moment, a foreign leader from the Zagros Mountains—Gandash—stepped onto this ancient land. He not only rebuilt the destroyed city but also, as a Kassite, skillfully integrated the rugged spirit of foreign influence into Babylon's glorious tradition, heralding the beginning of the Kassite dynasty. His rule, like a refreshing mountain breeze, swept through the ancient civilization, bringing a new chapter to Babylon.
The Post-Cassite Period (1): Marduk-Kabitu-Akshushu: Igniting the Torch of Babylon from the Ruins翁琴In the long history of Mesopotamia, Babylon shone like a brilliant star, sometimes radiant and sometimes dim. In the 12th century BC, the fall of the Kassite dynasty plunged this ancient city into unprecedented darkness. The iron hooves of the Elamites trampled the land of Babylon, the statue of Marduk was looted, and the city fell into ruins. However, it was in this moment of despair that a leader named Marduk-Kabit-Ahshur emerged. He not only expelled the foreign enemies but also rebuilt the glory of Babylon, becoming the founder of the Second Isin Dynasty. His story is an epic of rising from the ruins, a torch ignited in the darkness.
The period of Middle Babylon (3): Kadasman-Enlil I: Power and Cultural Balance under Diplomatic Marriages翁琴During the Kassite dynasty in Babylon, King Kadashman-Enlil I (circa 1374 BC – 1360 BC) brought relative prosperity and stability to Babylon with his robust rule and flexible diplomatic strategies. This ruler not only inherited the traditions of the Kassite dynasty but also further consolidated Babylon's position in the ancient Near East through marriage alliances and trade relations with Egypt. Although his era was not as glorious as the later Neo-Babylonian Empire, it provides us with a window to observe the intertwining of power and culture. How did Kadashman-Enlil I's marriage diplomacy maintain national interests while balancing foreign influences and the inheritance of local culture? This article will explore his ruling background, diplomatic strategies, economic and cultural achievements, as well as the deeper significance of marriage diplomacy.
The Babylonian Period (2): Burna-Burias II: The Starlit Diplomat of the Kassite Dynasty翁琴On the ancient land of the Two Rivers Valley, the Kassite dynasty rose like a new star, slowly ascending in the night sky of history. Burna-Buriaš II (circa 1359 BC – 1333 BC), the Kassite king who ruled Babylon for about 26 years, won the world's attention for the Kassite dynasty with his outstanding diplomatic skills and cultural contributions. His era, like starlight scattered on Babylon's clay tablets, shone brightly, solidifying the domestic foundation while allowing Babylon to radiate a unique brilliance among the great powers.
The Era of Babylon (5): The Debt Forgiveness of Ammi-Saduqa and the Struggles of the Empire翁琴In the long history of ancient Mesopotamia, the First Babylonian Dynasty is undoubtedly a brilliant chapter. This city-state, established on the banks of the Euphrates River, is renowned for its legal, cultural, and economic achievements. However, during the reign of Ammi-saduqa (circa 1646 BC – 1626 BC), this once-glorious dynasty began to show signs of fatigue. As the tenth king of the First Babylonian Dynasty, Ammi-saduqa inherited an empire with a glorious tradition yet filled with crises. His reign is known for a bold policy—the debt relief decree—which was seen as an attempt similar to a "jubilee," aimed at alleviating socio-economic pressures and revitalizing public morale. However, in the face of external threats from the Kassites and internal instability, the effects of this policy were complex and limited. This article will delve into how Ammi-saduqa's debt relief decree attempted to save the empire's economy and public morale, as well as the significance and limitations of this initiative in its historical context.
The Era of Babylon (6): The Last Struggle of Samsu-Ditana翁琴In the ancient Mesopotamian plains, the city of Babylon once shone like the brightest star in the night sky, radiating the brilliance of civilization. From Hammurabi's Code to the emergence of astrology, the First Dynasty of Babylon (circa 1894 BC – 1595 BC) wrote a glorious chapter in early human history with its political wisdom and cultural achievements. However, by the final years of the reign of Samsu-Ditana (circa 1625 BC – 1595 BC), the light of this star gradually dimmed, and the empire teetered on the brink of collapse amid internal and external threats. Samsu-Ditana, the last king of the First Dynasty of Babylon, faced the dual oppression of the Kassites and Hittites, leaving a final struggle for the city with his indomitable will. His story is both a lament for personal fate and an echo of Babylonian civilization in its twilight.
The Era of Babylon (4): The Glory and Challenges of Ammi-Ditana翁琴In the long history of the First Dynasty of Babylon, the reign of Ammi-ditana (circa 1683 BC – 1647 BC) is like a flickering light in the wind. Although it does not match the blazing flames of the Hammurabi era, it preserved a unique brilliance for this ancient city-state in its own way. His 37-year reign coincided with a turning point as the Babylonian Empire gradually entered a period of decline, facing external threats from the Kassites and the undercurrents of the Sea Peoples, while internally dealing with complex governance challenges. However, Ammi-ditana chose not to respond to the clamor of the times with swords, but instead focused on the deep cultivation of culture and faith. Through the restoration of temples, the promotion of literature, and the stabilization of administration, he wrote a chapter for Babylon during turmoil that, while not dazzling, is thought-provoking. His efforts are like the starlight that illuminates the dusk; though it cannot dispel the night, it leaves a memory of the resilience of civilization for future generations.
What is feudalism?lalala nguyenWe learn history or have stories and lessons about the feudal system. But why is it called the feudal system? What does feudal mean? If you think feudalism is just about kings, magnificent castles, or grand battles, then that might not be enough. First, let's decode the name feudalism.
The Era of Babylon (3): The Struggles and Glory of Abi-Eshuh翁琴In the intertwining of the glory and decline of the First Dynasty of Babylon, the name Abbi-Eshuh may not be as resounding as that of his ancestor Hammurabi, but his reign was a time filled with contradictions and challenges. This son of Samsu-iluna ruled Babylon for about 28 years from around 1711 BC to 1684 BC, attempting to stabilize the situation amid the cracks in the empire and to restore its former glory. However, his reign resembled a tug-of-war with time, rebellion, and external enemies, filled with helplessness and perseverance. The story of Abbi-Eshuh is one of power, ambition, and fate, as well as a microcosm of an empire struggling on the brink of decline.
The Era of Babylon (2): Samsu-Iluna - Glory and Division翁琴In the vast plains of ancient Mesopotamia, the First Dynasty of Babylon shone like a dazzling star, illuminating the history of the Tigris-Euphrates region. Samsu-Iluna (circa 1749 BC – 1712 BC), the king who inherited his father Hammurabi's empire, wrote a chapter that was both glorious and full of challenges during his 38-year reign. His era marked a turning point for the Babylonian Empire, transitioning from its peak to early decline. How did Samsu-Iluna respond to the crisis of division within the vast legacy left by his father? Why were his efforts both admirable and unable to fully reverse the situation? Let us delve into this ancient world filled with war, rebellion, and intrigue to seek the answers.
The Era of Babylon (1): Hammurabi - From Conquest to Code翁琴In the ancient land of Mesopotamia, rivers nurtured the earliest civilizations of humanity, with cities scattered like stars in the embrace of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This was once the stage of the Sumerians, who wrote the prologue of human civilization with cuneiform script, clay tablets, and city-state systems. However, in the 18th century BC, a king named Hammurabi ascended the historical stage. He not only unified this divided land through force and wisdom but also left an eternal mark for future generations with a code of laws. Hammurabi's rule ended the independent tradition of the Sumerian city-states while ushering in an era of centralized empires in Mesopotamia. His story is a symphony of conquest and order, a convergence of broken traditions and new chapters.
The Legend of the Sumerian Kings (34): The Legend of Nabushumlibur - The Glimmer of the End of Larsa翁琴In the vast plains of ancient Mesopotamia, rivers flowed like the veins of life, nourishing humanity's earliest civilizations. Larsa, a city-state guarded by the sun god Shamash, once shone brightly in the cultural fusion of Sumer and Akkad. However, as the wheels of history rolled into the 18th century BC, Larsa's brilliance had faded like the twilight glow, dim yet unwilling to vanish. In this final time, a king named Nabum-shum-libur ascended to the throne. His reign was brief and tumultuous, like an unfinished elegy, recording the final chapter of the Larsa dynasty. Under the shadow of Babylon, how did Nabum-shum-libur struggle to continue Larsa's glory? This is not only a story about personal fate but also a microcosm of the power transitions in Mesopotamia.
How did the British colonizers act insidiously towards the colonies?pypy nguyenThis will be a controversial topic, the unstable legacies that the British colonizers left behind from the old colonies, from India, Palestine, Nigeria, Myanmar to Sri Lanka. The withdrawal of the British often came with divisions, conflicts, and even civil wars. What happened? Why did these countries fall into a spiral of chaos after gaining independence?
The Legend of the Sumerian King (33): The Last Glory of Damik-Ilishu翁琴In the ancient land of Mesopotamia, the temple of Nippur is shrouded in smoke, as priests softly chant prayers to the god Enlil. Cuneiform inscriptions cover the clay tablets, recording the glory and decline of Sumerian civilization. On this land, the last king of the First Dynasty of Isin, Damiq-ilishu (circa 1816 BC – 1794 BC), wrote a tragic and moving legend during his 23-year reign. As the final defender of Sumerian kingship, he sought to leave a lasting legacy for this ancient civilization amidst chaos. His story is not only a tale of a king's struggle but also an epic about perseverance, glory, and conclusion.
The Legend of the Sumerian Kings (32): Sin-Magir and the Last Glory of Isin翁琴In the ancient land of the Two Rivers, where starlight intertwines with rivers, the Sumerian civilization shone like the brightest star in the night sky, illuminating the dawn of human history. On this land, the penultimate king of the First Dynasty of Isin, Sin-magir (circa 1827 BC – 1817 BC), wrote a tragic chapter for the twilight of Sumerian civilization with his brief yet tumultuous reign. His era was a time when the Isin dynasty attempted to hold onto its last glory before the rise of Babylon. The story of Sin-magir is not only a tale of a king's struggle but also a microcosm of the Sumerian civilization's fight for survival in the currents of history.
The Legend of the Sumerian Kings (31): The Last Guardian of Ur-Dukuga翁琴In the vast plains of Mesopotamia, the Euphrates and Tigris rivers wind like two serpentine dragons, nurturing humanity's earliest civilization—Sumer. Here, the cuneiform inscriptions on clay tablets record the glory and lament of countless kings, among which Ur-dukuga may be the most unremarkable yet poignant figure. He was one of the last kings of the First Dynasty of Isin (circa 2017 BC–1794 BC), ruling for only about three years (1830 BC–1828 BC), yet in the chaotic times marking the end of Sumerian kingship, he attempted to safeguard the last dignity of this ancient land with his own strength. His story, like the final rays of twilight, is brief yet profound, carrying the glory and transience of Sumerian civilization.
The Legend of the Sumerian Kings (30): Itur-Pisha's Struggle in the Shadow of Babylon翁琴In the vast plains of the Mesopotamian region, history flows like the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, nurturing one of humanity's earliest civilizations—Sumer. In the 19th century BC, the glory of the First Dynasty of Isin was fading like the twilight, gradually dimming. At this turning point in history, a king named Itur-Pisha ascended to the throne, attempting to secure one last chance for Isin with a brief reign. His story is not an epic of swords and blades, but a legend of a monarch struggling to survive in the torrent of the times. His name, Itur-Pisha, means "her command is supreme," yet it appears so fragile and fleeting under the rising brilliance of Babylon.