Tomorrow, December 10th, marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and also International Human Rights Day. The declaration states in Article 27: "Everyone has the right to freely participate in cultural life, to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits. Everyone has the right to the protection of the moral and material interests resulting from any scientific, literary or artistic production of which he is the author." On this occasion, a part of the text of Cyrus the Great's Charter, which is considered by experts to be the first charter of human rights in the world, is presented: "I am Cyrus, King of the World, Great King, Just King, King of Babylon, King of Sumer and Akkad, King of the Four Corners of the World. Son of Cambyses, the Great King... Grandson of Cyrus, the Great King... Great-grandson of Chishpish, the Great King... When I entered Babylon without war and conflict, all the people welcomed my steps with joy. I sat on the throne of kings in Babylon, the great god Marduk turned the pure hearts of the people of Babylon towards me... because I honored and revered him. My great army entered Babylon peacefully. I did not allow any suffering or harm to come to the people of this city and this land. I abolished slavery, and ended their miseries. The internal situation of Babylon and its sacred places moved my heart... I commanded that no one should deprive the inhabitants of the city of their existence. I commanded that all people be free to worship their god, and they were pleased with my actions... He bestowed his blessings and kindness. We all joyfully and peacefully praised his high status... I rebuilt all the cities that had been destroyed. I commanded that all the temples that had been closed be opened. I returned all the gods of these temples to their places. I brought back all the people who had been scattered and displaced to their places and rebuilt their ruined homes. I also returned the statues of the gods of Sumer and Akkad, which Nebuchadnezzar had brought to Babylon without fear of the great god, to their temples with the pleasure of the great god Marduk, so that hearts may rejoice. May the gods that I returned to their original sacred places ask for a long life for me every day in the presence of the great god... I prepared a peaceful society for all people and granted peace and tranquility to all people."
The Text of Cyrus the Great's Charter on the Eve of International Human Rights Day
On December 10th, International Human Rights Day, the article highlights the significance of Cyrus the Great's Charter, considered the first human rights charter. It emphasizes Cyrus's commitment to freedom, peace, and the welfare of his subjects, aligning with modern human rights principles.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
On the eve of International Human Rights Day, the article presents Cyrus the Great's Charter, highlighting its significance as a foundational document for human rights. The text emphasizes Cyrus's commitment to peace, freedom, and the welfare of his subjects.
- Cyrus the Great's Charter is considered the first human rights charter in history.
- The article coincides with the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted in 1948.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Cyrus the Great is a significant figure in Iranian history, known for his enlightened rule and respect for the cultures of conquered peoples. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a pivotal document that outlines fundamental human rights for all individuals.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%