Caldeans

Their origin dates back to the south of Mesopotamia, in a region known as Chaldea, located in what is now southern Iraq, along the shores of the Persian Gulf. They played a crucial role in the history of Babylon and the rise of the Babylonian Empire, especially during the late second millennium BC and the early first millennium BC.

Origins and Location

Chaldea, situated in the far south of Mesopotamia, was a fertile land cut by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The Chaldeans were likely a semi-nomadic group that migrated to the region during the second millennium BC and settled near Sumer and Akkad, civilizations that were already flourishing at that time.

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Their importance grew during the first millennium BC when they conquered parts of Babylon and became the ruling elite by the end of this period. It is during this time that the Neo-Babylonian Empire forms, with Nebuchadnezzar II being the most famous of the Chaldean kings. He is known for conquering Jerusalem and destroying the First Jewish Temple in 586 BC.

Religion and Beliefs

Chaldean religion was heavily influenced by Mesopotamian traditions. They worshipped a series of deities associated with the forces of nature and the cosmos, among whom were Marduk, the chief Babylonian god, along with Ea, Anu, and other gods associated with planets and stars. The practice of astrology and divination was central to the Chaldeans, and their skill in reading the heavens influenced cultures throughout the Middle East. In terms of religion, the worship of Marduk in Babylon was dominant, and the Chaldeans continued many of the rituals and religious practices of the Sumerians and Akkadians.

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Culture and Main Features

The Chaldeans were not only warriors and conquerors but also great builders and scholars. They inherited and adapted the rich cultural heritage of the Sumerians and Akkadians, especially in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. Nebuchadnezzar II, for example, was responsible for some of the most impressive constructions in Babylon, including the Hanging Gardens, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

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The study of the stars was a hallmark of Chaldean culture. Their ability to predict celestial events and the development of astrology were highly valued, both by their own people and by other ancient peoples. They also developed a sophisticated calendar based on astronomical observations.

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Conflicts and External Relations

Historically, the Chaldeans faced and entered into conflict with various powers, such as the Assyrians. However, their greatest rivalry was with the Assyrian Empire, which dominated Mesopotamia for a long time. By the end of the 7th century BC, the Chaldean king Nabopolassar, in alliance with the Medes, managed to overthrow Assyria, ending Assyrian dominance and establishing the Neo-Babylonian Empire, with Babylon as its capital.

In addition to their wars with Assyria, the Chaldeans also had complicated relations with the Persians. The Neo-Babylonian Empire lasted only until 539 BC, when it was conquered by Cyrus the Great, king of Persia. The fall of Babylon marked the end of Chaldean dominance in the region and the beginning of the rise of the Persian Empire.

Curiosities

• Astrology and Sciences: The Chaldeans are often mentioned in ancient scriptures and documents as great astrologers. In fact, their fame spread throughout the Middle East, and even today, the word "Chaldean" can be associated with the study of the stars.
• Architecture and Achievements: In addition to their religious and scientific influence, the Chaldeans were responsible for great constructions in Babylon. The famous Ishtar Gate and the Walls of Babylon are notable examples of their monumental architecture.
• Biblical Influence: The Chaldeans appear several times in the Bible, being associated with the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II, who took the Jews captive to Babylon. This event is central to the Babylonian exile, one of the most significant moments in biblical history.

Conclusion

The Chaldeans were a powerful force in the ancient history of the Middle East, especially due to their rise to power in Babylon and their contribution to the development of astrology and science. Their wars and conflicts, especially with Assyria and Persia, shaped the history of the region. With a rich culture and a lasting influence in the areas of religion and science, the legacy of the Chaldeans still resonates in ancient history and sacred texts.

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