Old Babylonian temple loans: an assessment

This paper presents a quantitative assessment of Old Babylonian temple loans, emphasizing their central role in the broader economic structure of ancient Mesopotamia. Drawing on a large corpus of loan contracts, the study highlights the widespread practice of temples acting as lenders, particularly in Northern Babylonia and the Diyala region. The deity Šamaš predominates as the main creditor, followed by significant local deities like Sîn in Tutub and Uraš in Geraineh. The analysis distinguishes between “emergency loans” for individuals in distress and business loans generating temple income. The involvement of human agents, including temple staff and private individuals, underscores the complexity of the temple’s societal role. Repayment terms, often favorable to debtors, and the presence of deities as witnesses highlight the intertwined religious and economic dimensions of these loans. This study sheds light on the intricate interplay between religion, economy, and society in second-millennium Mesopotamia.