Question

Which cultural trait of the Ancient Near East has to do with the burden that a person brings, not only to themselves, but to the broader community, by committing improper acts?


patriarchy


shame


cleanness


ritual purity

Answer 1

The cultural trait you are referring to is **shame**. In the context of the Ancient Near East, shame was a crucial societal construct that encompassed the idea that an individual's improper acts could not only bring personal disgrace but also have repercussions for the broader community. This sense of shame often served to reinforce social norms and expectations, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individuals within the community and their responsibilities to uphold communal values.