The Origins of the Seven-Day Week: Who Named Monday to Sunday?

Discover the fascinating history of the seven-day week and the naming of days from Monday to Sunday, rooted in ancient Mesopotamia.

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The seven-day week and the names Monday to Sunday originate from ancient Mesopotamia. The Babylonians divided the week into seven days, each named after celestial bodies: the Sun, Moon, and five planets visible to the naked eye. This system spread through Greek and Roman cultures, eventually influencing modern calendars.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the origin of the seven-day week? The seven-day week originated in ancient Mesopotamia, where the Babylonians divided time based on celestial bodies.
  2. Why are the days of the week named after celestial bodies? Each day corresponds to a celestial object, such as the Sun or Moon, reflecting the Babylonians' astronomical observations.
  3. How did the seven-day week spread to other cultures? The concept of the seven-day week spread through Greek and Roman cultures, influencing modern calendar systems.

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For more insights into the evolution of timekeeping and its impact on modern society, check out our videos on the history of calendars and time measurement systems.

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