Family Systems in Ancient Iraqi Civilization (Adoption as a Model)

Abstract

The phenomenon of adoption is considered one of the well-known practices in ancient societies, driven by the interests of both individuals and the community, as it fulfilled essential social needs by providing offspring for families. A study of ancient Iraqi laws and texts reveals that adoption was widespread in Mesopotamia, motivated by various factors not limited to natural causes of infertility. Some Iraqi families adopted individuals to obtain labor, while others did so to ensure better living conditions for their children by placing them with wealthier families capable of providing proper livelihood, education, and a secure future. Moreover, the system of adoption offered priestesses in ancient Iraqi civilization the opportunity to have children, as they were not permitted to bear children themselves.

Evidence from certain ancient Iraqi documents also indicates that adoption was not limited to children; adults, both male and female, could also be adopted. In some cases, elderly individuals adopted a grown man or woman to care for them and perform burial rites after their death, with the adopted individuals becoming heirs to their property.