VIDEO Ancient Demons with Irving Finkel I Curator's Corner season 3 episode 7

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Ancient Demons with Irving Finkel I Curator's Corner S3 Ep7 #CuratorsCorner In the captivating episode of "Curator's Corner," Irving Finkel, a curator from the British Museum, delves into the intriguing world of ancient Mesopotamian demons, ghosts, and sprites—beings that caused considerable anxiety in ancient lives. This insightful discussion elaborates on how these supernatural figures were perceived and dealt with in old Mesopotamian societies, particularly among the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Finkel starts by explaining the complex relationship humans had with their deities—each individual was protected by a personal god, who, like humans, was capricious and easily distracted. This lack of divine supervision meant that various malignant entities, like demons, were always lurking, waiting for a moment of vulnerability. Among these creatures, the demon Lamashtu stood out; she is characterized as a lion-headed figure often depicted with disturbing iconography, indicating her threat to infants and pregnant women. Interestingly, Finkel juxtaposes Lamashtu with Pazuzu, a grotesque demon whose image was actually viewed as a protective talisman against Lamashtu. He humorously suggests that a tumultuous relationship, akin to a toxic divorce, might explain the aversion these demons had toward each other. Finkel also critiques the portrayals of Pazuzu in modern media, highlighting how cultural misunderstandings have misrepresented these ancient entities. Moreover, the episode provides insights into ancient exorcism practices used to combat demonic possession or illness thought to be caused by these supernatural beings. Finkel describes how exorcists employed clever methods such as creating toy boats filled with distractions to carry away demons down the Tigris River, a symbolic act meant to rid individuals of evil influences. For those interested in history, archaeology, and the complexities of ancient belief systems, Finkel's analysis offers a window into a fascinating aspect of human culture. His narratives underscore that while myths may differ, the fear of the unseen and unknown ties humanity together across time. In conclusion, this episode of "Curator’s Corner" not only sheds light on the beliefs surrounding demons in ancient Mesopotamia but also illustrates the rich tapestry of human culture and the psychological struggles faced by those in ancient times. If you're keen on learning more about historical perspectives on the supernatural, consider subscribing to the British Museum's YouTube channel for more enlightening content. What do you think about the ancient ways these cultures addressed fears of demons? Share your thoughts below, and let's discuss!