What was the Babylonian view of death and burial practices?

The Babylonians had a unique view of death and burial practices that was influenced by their religious beliefs. They believed that the afterlife was a continuation of life on Earth and that the dead could influence the living. Therefore, it was important to treat the dead with respect and provide them with everything they needed for their journey to the afterlife.

The Babylonians believed that the soul of the deceased went to the underworld, a dark and dreary place ruled by the goddess Ereshkigal. It was believed that the soul had to pass through seven gates and that it needed to be properly equipped with food, drink, and other necessities to make the journey. The dead were buried with personal belongings and items that would be useful in the afterlife.

In Babylonian society, the burial of the dead was a communal affair. The body was washed and anointed with oil and then wrapped in linen. The body was then placed in a coffin and carried to the cemetery by family and friends. The funeral procession was accompanied by mourners who wailed and beat their chests as a sign of grief.

The Babylonians also believed that the dead could influence the living. Therefore, they were careful to honor the dead with offerings and sacrifices. They believed that the spirits of the dead could bring good fortune or bad luck depending on how they were treated.