CHALDEANS Meaning and
Definition
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Chaldeans refer to an ancient Semitic people who originated in southern Babylonia (present-day southern Iraq) around the 10th century BCE. They were known for their advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and astrology, and they made significant contributions in these fields.
Scholars often refer to the Chaldeans as a priestly class associated with the Babylonian society, responsible for studying celestial phenomena and interpreting omens and dreams. Their skills and expertise in these areas made them highly sought after, not only in religious matters but also in matters of statecraft.
The Chaldeans were adept at observing and predicting astronomical events, such as eclipses, comets, and the movements of the planets. They believed that these celestial occurrences had great significance and used their understanding of the stars to make predictions about the outcomes of various events.
Throughout history, the name "Chaldean" has been used in different contexts, and it can also refer to the people and communities living in the region of Mesopotamia during the Neo-Babylonian Empire, particularly during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar II (605-562 BCE). During this time, the Chaldeans played a central role in Babylonia's affairs and became synonymous with its ruling elite.
Today, the term "Chaldeans" is often used to refer to modern Neo-Aramaic-speaking communities in Iraq, particularly those who are ethnically Assyrian and belong to the Chaldean Catholic Church. These contemporary Chaldeans are descendants of the ancient Babylonian civilization but have their own distinct cultural and religious practices.
Common Misspellings for CHALDEANS
Etymology of CHALDEANS
The word "Chaldeans" is derived from the Greek word "Chaldaioi", originally used by ancient Greek authors to refer to the inhabitants of the region known as Chaldea. Chaldea was a historical region located in what is now modern-day southern Iraq. The Chaldeans were a Semitic people who lived in this region and were known for their knowledge of astronomy and astrology. Over time, the term "Chaldeans" came to refer more broadly to the Babylonians in general.
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