Latest news with #EpicofGilgamesh
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Thrill Quest ft. Arjun Bijlani Summer in Abu Dhabi Totally Recommended
Lifestyle • 5 months ago As John Keating said in Dead Poets Society, "We don't read and write poetry because it's cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race." Poetry has been a cornerstone of human expression for millennia. One of the earliest poetic texts, Hymn to the Death of Tammuz, dates back to 2500–3000 BCE, alongside the ancient Epic of Gilgamesh. Despite its timelessness, poetry has faced criticism, with philosophers like Plato and Aristotle questioning its value. Yet, visionaries like P.B. Shelley infused poetry with romanticism, reimagining its purpose. But in today's fast-paced, modern world—where does poetry stand? In this episode of #ThinkAboutIt, we delve into the enduring relevance of poetry. Why do we still read and write it? How does it help us connect with our inner selves and channel our emotions? Watch as we explore the profound world of poetry and its impact on the human spirit.
Shafaq News
03-07-2025
- Science
- Shafaq News
Babil unearths 2,000-year-old hymn on morality and women
Shafaq News – Babil A research team in Babil has discovered parts of an ancient hymn carved into clay tablets in the ruins of the city of Sippar, about 65 kilometers north of the province. The religious poem, dedicated to the god Marduk, protector of Babylon, dates back more than 2,100 years to the ancient Babylonian civilization and offers poetic descriptions of life in the city, including its flowing rivers, jewel-adorned gates, and pure priests. Researchers from Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich (Germany) used artificial intelligence to reconstruct 30 scattered tablet fragments, a process that would have taken decades using traditional methods. The original hymn is composed of approximately 250 lines, of which scholars have so far deciphered and translated about one-third of the cuneiform text. Professor Enrique Jimenez, who led the team, described the text as possessing exceptional literary quality and precise structure. The hymn begins with praise for Marduk, calling him the 'architect of the universe,' and continues with praise for Babylon, portraying it as a paradise rich in blessings, comparing it to the sea, a fruit garden, and waves in abundance. It includes a vivid depiction of the Euphrates River and the fertile plains around it, where livestock graze. The text also reveals moral values in Babylonian society, highlighting respect for strangers and protection of the weak. The hymn praises priests who do not humiliate foreigners, who free captives, and care for orphans. It also mentions female priests acting as midwives, a role not previously recorded in other historical sources. It is believed to have held a special status in Babylonian culture and remained part of the school curriculum for nearly a thousand years, from the 15th century BCE (Before Common Era) to the 1st century BCE. The ruins of Babylon, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are located about 85 kilometers south of Baghdad. Among the lines in the hymn is a poetic passage describing the Euphrates River: "The Euphrates is her river, the work of the wise god Nudimmud, It waters the banks, irrigates the plains, Pours its waters into the lake and the sea, Its fields bloom with herbs and barley, Spring grass and grain shine in its meadows, Mounds of beer grains pile in its center, Cattle and sheep rest on green pastures, Abundance and wealth—what is rightful for the people? Multiply, are available, and pour forth in plenty." The hymn is estimated to have been written between 1500 and 1300 BCE, making it one of the oldest long literary works in Babylon's history. Although it is more recent than the Epic of Gilgamesh, the hymn was studied and copied alongside it for centuries. Researchers believe it was composed by a single author, though their identity remains unknown. Hymn of Babylon pieced together after 2,100 years — but how?A lost classic of Mesopotamian literature has largely been reconstructed by scholars, who recovered fragments of 30 ancient clay tablets — Times Culture (@timesculture) July 2, 2025
The Province
14-05-2025
- Politics
- The Province
Coquitlam high school teacher reprimanded for discriminatory remarks
Evgueni Melnik was teaching comparative civilizations when he made statements critical of Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ identity File photo of a classroom Photo by Getty images A Coquitlam high school teacher has been reprimanded for making racially insensitive and discriminatory statements during classroom discussions and chats with students. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Evgueni Vladimirovitch Melnik was teaching a comparative civilizations class in May 2021 when he talked about the Epic of Gilgamesh and the concept of immortality. 'Melnik drew a line graph on the blackboard with 'Animals,' 'Humans,' 'Jesus' and 'God.' This was meant to illustrate the material and non-material nature of all human beings,' said a summary of the punishment on the B.C. Commissioner for Teacher Regulation website posted online Tuesday. 'In discussing humans, Melnik said that humans were complex thinkers. With respect to God, Melnik said, 'Everyone wants to reach this.' At some point during the lesson, Melnik referenced Black Lives Matter protesters and circled 'Animals' at least three times. In a conversation with a student outside of class time, Melnik said he believed all lives matter and that police were not the problem.' Essential reading for hockey fans who eat, sleep, Canucks, repeat. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. He also questioned an emphasis on gender diversity and inclusion in the culture and media. 'In a discussion about the influence of the media through the use of language, Melnik said: 'The media has you believe there are more than two genders when using the words 'bisexual' and 'binary' … there are so many labels, who cares?' A student in the class was a member of the LGBTQ community and reported being 'very upset and impacted by this comment.' Melnik also questioned the reality of racism. He told the class it didn't exist and that 'a lot of what is described as racism today comes from cultural differences.' He talked about anti-Asian sentiment among railway workers in the early 19th century and said they were 'resented because they worked for less money and followed direction.' Late in 2021, Melnik was given a letter of discipline and suspended by the district for eight days without pay, which he served before the end of the year. He was also ordered to take a course on diversity and sensitivity training. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. An investigation was ordered by the teacher commissioner in 2023 that led to the signing of a consent resolution agreement, in which Melnik admitted to professional misconduct. He accepted the reprimand and was ordered to complete a course on creating positive learning environments by the start of the coming school year. The commissioner said the penalty was considered appropriate because Melnik shared views with students 'that did not align with the district's expectations that teachers refrain from engaging in conduct or comment which disparages or discriminates against others,' and that he 'did not foster a safe environment for his students, nor did he role-model respect for diversity.' jruttle@ Read More NHL Vancouver Canucks World Vancouver Canucks Sports
Vancouver Sun
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Vancouver Sun
Coquitlam high school teacher reprimanded for discriminatory remarks
A Coquitlam high school teacher has been reprimanded for making racially insensitive and discriminatory statements during classroom discussions and chats with students. Evgueni Vladimirovitch Melnik was teaching a comparative civilizations class in May 2021 when he talked about the Epic of Gilgamesh and the concept of immortality. 'Melnik drew a line graph on the blackboard with 'Animals,' 'Humans,' 'Jesus' and 'God.' This was meant to illustrate the material and non-material nature of all human beings,' said a summary of the punishment on the B.C. Commissioner for Teacher Regulation website posted online Tuesday. 'In discussing humans, Melnik said that humans were complex thinkers. With respect to God, Melnik said 'everyone wants to reach this.' At some point during the lesson, Melnik referenced Black Lives Matter protesters and circled 'Animals' at least three times. In a conversation with a student outside of class time, Melnik said he believed all lives matter and that police were not the problem.' Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. He also questioned an emphasis on gender diversity and inclusion in the culture and media. 'In a discussion about the influence of the media through the use of language, Melnik said: 'the media has you believe there are more than two genders when using the words 'bisexual' and 'binary' … there are so many labels, who cares?' A student in the class was a member of the LGBTQ community and reported being 'very upset and impacted by this comment.' Melnik also questioned the reality of racism. He told the class it didn't exist and that 'a lot of what is described as racism today comes from cultural differences.' He talked about anti-Asian sentiment among railroad workers in the early 19th century and said they were 'resented because they worked for less money and followed direction.' Late in 2021, Melnik was given a letter of discipline and suspended by the district for eight days without pay, which he served before the end of the year. He was also ordered to take a course on diversity and sensitivity training. An investigation was ordered by the teacher commissioner in 2023 that led to the signing of a consent resolution agreement, in which Melnik admitted to professional misconduct. He accepted the reprimand and was ordered to complete a course on creating positive learning environments by the start of the coming school year. The commissioner said the penalty was considered appropriate because Melnik shared views with students 'that did not align with the district's expectations that teachers refrain from engaging in conduct or comment which disparages or discriminates against others,' and that he 'did not foster a safe environment for his students, nor did he role-model respect for diversity.' jruttle@
Observer
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery
Stal Gallery opened its latest exhibition on 13 April in Muscat, presenting 'Gilgamesh: Symbols and Connotations' by acclaimed Iraqi artist Dr. Sabeeh Kalash. Held under the patronage of Engineer Saeed Al-Saklawy, President of the Omani Society for Writers and Literati, the event brought together artists, writers, and cultural enthusiasts for an evocative evening where ancient myth met contemporary vision. The exhibition runs until 22 April. Rooted in the cultural wealth of Mesopotamia, Gilgamesh: Symbols and Connotations presents the world's oldest epic through a strikingly modern visual language. 'This exhibition unfolds the timeless Epic of Gilgamesh through the expressive strokes of a contemporary brush,' Kalash explains. 'Inspired by Mesopotamian heritage, the works portray Gilgamesh not merely as a legendary king, but as a universal symbol of humanity's eternal search—for meaning, friendship, transcendence, and immortality.' An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery Each painting offers a poetic exploration of key moments from the epic: Enkidu's creation, the battle in the Cedar Forest, the Great Flood, the serpent, and the quest for eternal life. These themes emerge through symbolic forms, abstract compositions, and layered visual metaphors that invite deep reflection. Kalash's artistic vision is as personal as it is historical. 'The inspiration behind Gilgamesh: Symbols and Connotations was born from a profound connection to the cultural legacy of Mesopotamia—the cradle of civilisation and my ancestral land,' he shares. 'The epic offered a timeless mirror reflecting the essence of human existence: the struggle with mortality, the thirst for knowledge, the power of friendship, and the eternal quest for meaning.' An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery What sets this collection apart is how Kalash treats the myth as a living narrative that still resonates today. 'Amidst the noise of modern life and the fragmentation of identity, Gilgamesh emerged as a symbol of continuity, introspection, and resilience,' he notes. That introspection is tangible across the canvases, many of which resemble ancient ruins brought to life—etched with bull horns, faded inscriptions, and fractured forms. One piece features a kneeling, blue-hued figure caught mid-transformation, surrounded by symbolic orbs and grids. Another overlays winged beasts and warriors with stamp-like motifs and vibrant colour, echoing the epic's chaos and complexity. 'The creative process was fuelled by personal experiences of exile, longing, and the search for belonging—parallels to Gilgamesh's own journey of loss and discovery,' Kalash reflects. 'Each canvas became a meeting point of memory and imagination—a conversation across centuries.' An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery Dr. Sabeeh Kalash, born in Baghdad in 1948, is one of the Arab world's most respected contemporary artists. He holds a PhD in Contemporary Art History from Sorbonne University in Paris and has taught at leading institutions including the University of Baghdad, Yarmouk University, Al-Mustansiriya University, and Sultan Qaboos University, where he chaired the Art Education Department until 2014. His work—shown in over a dozen countries—is widely recognised for exploring themes of memory, mythology, and identity. In 2020, he received first prize in Oman's international art competition on the COVID-19 pandemic. An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery Presented at Stal Gallery, known for fostering cross-cultural dialogue through contemporary art, this exhibition offers more than an artistic reinterpretation—it is a thoughtful excavation of meaning and myth. Gilgamesh: Symbols and Connotations reflects the enduring power of storytelling and the timeless relevance of the human journey. The exhibition is open to the public until 22 April at Stal Gallery, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat. Visitors are invited to step into a world where memory and myth converge—where the figure of Gilgamesh walks again, not through ancient clay tablets, but across canvases alive with colour, symbolism, and emotional depth.
