The religions of ancient Egypt and Babylonia

"The Religions of Ancient Egypt and Babylonia" by A. H. Sayce is a series of lectures that explores the ancient Egyptian and Babylonian religions, explaining the concept of the divine and highlighting both the shared aspects and unique differences between these cultures. The book starts by acknowledging the difficulties of understanding these old religions because the evidence we have today is incomplete, like pieces of a puzzle found in archaeological digs and writings. Sayce thinks about how complex and interesting religious practices were in both civilizations but admits piecing together their beliefs is not easy. He encourages readers to remember that these beliefs were formed by their own unique histories and ways of life, warning against mixing modern beliefs with their ancient worldviews, and sets the stage for a study of divinity, morality, and what they believed happened after death begins.