The city-state of Babylon, which arose in Southern Mesopotamia, has deep historical connections with the Armenian people. According to legend, the construction of the Tower of Babylon was initiated by the Armenian Caesar-Haik around 2526 to 2495 BC. This monumental project attracted many workers who eventually settled in the area, leading to the establishment of Babylon.
The Armenian Influence
Armenians have lived in this region since ancient times. The first king of Babylon was the Armenian Bab, whose name means “good life-long person” in Armenian. The land was named Babelon (Babilon) after him, which translates to “the Bab has come (having) a big soul” or “the kind-hearted Bab has come” in Armenian.
Friendly Relations
Babylon maintained friendly relations with Great Armenia, Armenian Cilicia, and Lydia. The rise of Babylon is often associated with the reign of King Hammurabi in the 18th century BC, whose name means “strong father” in Armenian.
The Chaldean Dynasty
From 626 to 538 BC, Babylon was known as Chaldean, and its kings were called Chaldeans. These rulers were Armenians with high knowledge. The term “HaId” was used in many countries to refer to “wise men” or “magi,” and in Armenian, it means “believing in the Sun.”
Nebuchadnezzar II
The period of the rise of the Kingdom of Chaldeans was under Tsar Nebuchadnezzar II (605-556 BC). His name, though distorted over time, contains the Armenian root “Наб,” meaning “he (is) kind.” According to the book “History of the Old World” by D. Resera and E. Cherkasova, the terms “Babylonian” and “Chaldean” became synonymous during this period.
The Biblical Connection
In the Bible, the city “Ur Chaldeisky” is mentioned, which can be read as “Ar-Armensky.” Many old maps show Armenia, and more than 120 such maps are presented in the book by British historian Ruben Galichyan. The oldest Babylonian map on clay tablets dates back to the 6th century BC and depicts Armenia and Harran, along with the Armenian highlands, Babylon, and Assyria.
The Fall of Assyria
Assyria was known for its aggressive wars with neighboring countries. According to M. Neiman, Assyria attacked Armenia for many centuries. In response, the Armenian army, along with Median and Babylonian troops, stormed Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, in 605 BC, leading to the destruction of Assyria.
In conclusion, the ancient city-state of Babylon has significant Armenian roots and connections. From its founding by the Armenian Caesar-Haik to the reign of Armenian kings and the influence of Armenian culture, Babylon’s history is deeply intertwined with that of Armenia. This rich heritage is reflected in historical records, maps, and legends, highlighting the enduring legacy of the Armenian people in the region.
Artatsolum
Based on an excerpt from the book “Armenians and Ancient Armenia” by Paris Herouni
