When was religion recognized as religion? Did the Sumerians know what a religion was? When did religion enter the colloquial mind, when did it become a political force?
(Ai reply)
It's fascinating to consider when "religion" became a distinct category of human experience and how its influence evolved. Here's a breakdown of your questions:
When was religion recognized as religion?
The concept of "religion" as a separate and defined category is a relatively modern development, largely emerging in the 16th and 17th centuries in the West, particularly with the rise of the nation-state and the need to differentiate between secular and sacred authority.
* Classical and Ancient World: In ancient societies, including the Sumerians, there wasn't necessarily a distinct concept of "religion" separate from other aspects of life like governance, social customs, ethics, and cosmology. Their beliefs and practices were deeply interwoven with their daily existence and understanding of the world. What we might now call "religious" activities were simply part of their societal fabric.
* The Role of Writing: The invention of writing, around 3200 BCE, allowed for the codification of religious texts and practices, which played a significant role in standardizing beliefs and rituals across time and space.
* The Enlightenment: The Enlightenment period in Europe was crucial in shaping the modern understanding of religion. Thinkers began to analyze and categorize human beliefs and practices, leading to the concept of "religion" as a distinct field of study and a separate sphere from the state.
Did the Sumerians know what a religion was?
No, not in the way we understand "religion" today as a distinct and bounded system of beliefs and practices.
* Integrated Worldview: For the Sumerians, their interactions with deities, their myths, rituals, and the role of temples were integral to their understanding of the cosmos, their place within it, and the functioning of their society. Their pantheon of anthropomorphic gods was deeply connected to their city-states and natural forces.
* No Separate Sphere: There wasn't a clear separation between the "religious" and the "secular." The temple was not just a place of worship but also an economic and administrative center. The ruler often had close ties to the priesthood and religious legitimacy.
* "Religious Literature": While they produced a rich body of what we now call "religious literature" (myths, hymns, prayers), this was part of their broader cultural and societal expression, not necessarily categorized as belonging to a distinct domain called "religion."
When did religion enter the colloquial mind?
Religion, in its various forms, has likely always been a part of the "colloquial mind" in the sense that people have always had beliefs, rituals, and ways of understanding the supernatural or the ultimate questions of life. However, the understanding of "religion" as a distinct category in everyday thought probably evolved alongside its intellectual and political differentiation.
* Spread of Organized Religions: The rise and spread of large, organized religions like Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism likely contributed to a more defined sense of "religion" as a system of faith, practices, and belonging in the popular consciousness. These religions often had specific doctrines, institutions, and moral codes that were distinct from other aspects of life.
* Religious Conflicts and Movements: Historical events like the Reformation, religious wars, and various religious movements would have brought the concept of distinct "religions" and their differences into sharper focus in the public mind.
* Secularization: Ironically, the process of secularization in some parts of the world, which aimed to separate religion from state and public life, also reinforced the idea of religion as a distinct entity – something that could be separate.
When did it become a political force?
Religion has been intertwined with political power for millennia, since the earliest civilizations.
* Ancient Theocracies: In many ancient societies, including early Sumerian city-states where priests held significant power, religious authority directly translated into political authority. Rulers often claimed divine mandate to legitimize their rule.
* State Religions: Throughout history, many states have adopted official religions, using religious institutions to support their authority, enforce social order, and promote national unity. Think of the Roman Empire's adoption of Christianity or various Islamic empires.
* Religious Conflicts: Religion has also been a major factor in political conflict, from ancient wars fought over sacred sites to more modern sectarian violence.
* Modern Political Movements: Even in secular societies, religion continues to be a significant political force, influencing social policies, electoral behavior, and international relations. Religious organizations often advocate for specific political agendas based on their values and beliefs. The rise of religious nationalism in various parts of the world is a contemporary example of this.
In conclusion, while humans have always had beliefs and practices we now categorize as religious, the concept of "religion" as a distinct and defined sphere is a relatively recent development. For ancient societies like the Sumerians, their spiritual and social lives were deeply integrated. Religion's influence as a political force is ancient and enduring, evolving in its manifestations but consistently shaping human societies and their governance.
