Hiring of workers docket from the old Babylonian period
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Hiring of workers docket from the old Babylonian period
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Mogens Weitmeyer
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Hiring of workers docket from the old Babylonian period
Year: 1957 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5312
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The document discusses various dockets from the Old Babylonian period concerning the hiring of workers, as published by Mogens Weitemeyer in "Cuneiform Texts from Babylonian Tablets in the British Museum" (Volume 45, CT 45). This collection notably includes new materials that augment earlier findings regarding the contracts for hired labor in the Sippar region during the reign of Hammurabi. The dockets are inscribed on a pyramidal clay lump, detailing information such as the hired worker's identity, personal names, and dates of hiring.
The Role of Skilled and Unskilled Laborers
One important concept highlighted in the document is the differentiation between skilled and unskilled workers indicated by terms like lú šitim (skilled craftsman or bricklayer) and lú hun-gá (unskilled worker). The evidence suggests that both types of workers participated in activities like digging and bricklaying. This observation is important as it reflects the organized nature of labor and the types of construction projects undertaken during this era. Furthermore, the documentation shows that certain names of workers, such as Ipiq-Išhara, were recorded multiple times across various dockets, indicating their significance and perhaps their status within the workforce of that period.
Conclusion
The findings presented in the document provide valuable insight into the labor dynamics of the Old Babylonian period, particularly in terms of the hiring practices for skilled and unskilled workers. The connection between the dockets and the broader context of construction activity suggests a level of complexity in the management of labor during Hammurabi's reign. Despite no direct correlation established between dated documents and the dockets, the similarities in personal names and functions point to a structured labor force engaged in significant building projects, enhancing our understanding of the socio-economic aspects of early Mesopotamian society.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of the dockets from the Old Babylonian period?
The dockets provide insights into the hiring of workers during the time of Hammurabi, documenting workers' names, wages, and the type of work performed, contributing to our understanding of ancient labor practices.
What do the seals on the dockets indicate?
The seals represent the authenticity and authority of the dockets, with each uniquely identifying the transaction. They offer clues about the dating of the documents and connections between workers and their overseers.
How are the workers classified in the hiring system?
Workers are categorized as 'lú hun-gá' for unskilled laborers and 'lú šitim' for skilled craftsmen, suggesting various roles in construction and possibly other labor activities within the ancient society.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “Hiring of workers docket from the old Babylonian period�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Book:
The term 'book' in this context refers to Mogens Weitemeyer's previous publication, which focuses on the hiring of workers in the Sippar region during Hammurabi's era. This text serves as a foundational work that presents detailed accounts and analyses of dockets related to hired laborers, contributing to the understanding of ancient administrative practices.
2) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' signifies the information and insights gained from studying the cuneiform tablets and dockets discussed in the text. It emphasizes the importance of these ancient records in understanding the socioeconomic structure, labor practices, and administrative systems of the Old Babylonian period, enriching our comprehension of historical societies.
3) Sequence:
The word 'sequence' refers to the chronological order of the dockets and their inscriptions. Understanding the sequence helps researchers trace the development of labor and administrative practices over time, providing vital context for the historical significance of the records and their implications for understanding ancient Babylonian society.
4) Dynasty:
'Dynasty' pertains to the ruling lineage during the period discussed, specifically the first dynasty of Babylon under Hammurabi. This notion gives insight into the political and social framework that governed the practices of labor hiring and administration, as well as the continuity and change within the state's structures.
5) Leaf (Leaves):
In this context, 'leaves' likely refers to portions of the cuneiform texts that have survived or can be reconstructed. These incomplete texts shed light on administrative details and practices, but their fragmentary nature also hinders a comprehensive understanding of the full scope of labor-related activities during the time.
6) Temple:
'Temple' suggests a place of worship, which in ancient Babylonian society was often associated with economic activities, including labor hiring. Temples served as centers of communal and religious life, influencing various aspects of administration, labor, and the economy, highlighting the intersection of spirituality and daily governance.
7) House:
'House' signifies living spaces or structures that may have been part of the administrative or labor-related activities discussed in the documents. It indicates the domestic sphere of both skilled and unskilled workers, grounding the economic transactions in the lived experiences of individuals who made up ancient Babylonian society.
8) Adad:
'Adad' is a reference to the ancient Mesopotamian god associated with weather, storms, and fertility. Mentioning Adad in the context of labor implies that religious beliefs influenced various aspects of life, including labor practices, as workers may have invoked divine favor in their tasks and the stability of their livelihood.
9) Clay:
'Clay' refers to the primary material used in construction during the Old Babylonian period, especially for making bricks. Understanding clay’s role highlights the techniques and resources employed by workers in their labor, showcasing how material culture shaped their environment and the architectural achievements of ancient Babylon.