Music in Religious Cults of the Ancient Near East

Music in Religious Cults of the Ancient Near East explores the relationship between music and cultic worship in ancient western Asia, covering various regions and periods from 3000 BCE to 586 BCE. It combines insights from ancient sources and modern scholarship to present a comprehensive picture of the role of music in religious culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The relationship between music and cultic worship in ancient western Asia is explored in great detail in Music in Religious Cults of the Ancient Near East. The book spans ancient Israel and Judah, the Levant, Anatolia, Mesopotamia, Elam, and ancient Egypt, with a particular focus on the period from approximately 3000 BCE to around 586 BCE. This comprehensive work brings together insights from a wide range of ancient sources, including archaeological findings, iconographic depictions, written records, and musical compositions. By meticulously analyzing, comparing, and evaluating these diverse sources, the author paints a vivid picture of a world where religious culture played a central role and music was an integral part of everyday cultic activities.

The book begins by providing an overview of the musical traditions and practices of the various regions under study. It discusses the instruments used, the musical genres employed, and the role of music in religious ceremonies and rituals. The author then delves into the specific cultic practices and beliefs associated with music in each region, exploring how music was used to express devotion, communicate with deities, and reinforce social and cultural identities.

One of the key themes of the book is the relationship between music and power. The author argues that music was often used by religious leaders and elites to assert their authority and control over the masses. They used music to create a sense of unity and belonging among the followers, and to reinforce the legitimacy of their religious beliefs and practices.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of women in music and cultic worship. The author notes that women played a significant role in music-making and performance in many ancient cultures, and that their contributions were often overlooked or marginalized. She explores the ways in which women were able to use music to express their religious beliefs and to gain social and political power.

The book also discusses the influence of music on other aspects of ancient culture, such as literature, art, and politics. The author argues that music was not just a means of religious expression but was also a tool for social and cultural communication and for the creation of a shared cultural identity.

Overall, Music in Religious Cults of the Ancient Near East is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the relationship between music and cultic worship in ancient western Asia. The book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in ancient music, religion, and culture, and it will undoubtedly inspire further research and discussion in these fields.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367486358