Just because you were the ruler of Mesopotamia didn't mean you could just sit around and tell people what to do. If you were the ruler, you had to do some special tasks.
The ruler of Mesopotamia was also the chief priest of state religion. They built temples, as well as performed rituals. When a new temple was being built, the ruler had the honor of molding or carrying the first brick. Of course, the ruler was also responsible for the well-being of his subjects. A king was supposed to defend their land, and extend their territory.
Rulers claimed to "rule by the will of the gods." This shouldn't be very surprising, considering the importance of the gods in this ancient civilization. The rulers of Mesopotamia were also expected to be great military commanders, and very brave.
Overall, rulers were supposed to build cities that thrived. Although being ruler put you at the top of the social class, you had a lot of responsibility to carry out.
The ruler of Mesopotamia was also the chief priest of state religion. They built temples, as well as performed rituals. When a new temple was being built, the ruler had the honor of molding or carrying the first brick. Of course, the ruler was also responsible for the well-being of his subjects. A king was supposed to defend their land, and extend their territory.
Rulers claimed to "rule by the will of the gods." This shouldn't be very surprising, considering the importance of the gods in this ancient civilization. The rulers of Mesopotamia were also expected to be great military commanders, and very brave.
Overall, rulers were supposed to build cities that thrived. Although being ruler put you at the top of the social class, you had a lot of responsibility to carry out.
A Mesopotamian temple.
Dicussion Question: Would you want to be king, or do you think the king had too many responsibilities? Discuss with your team.