When Time Began by Zechariah Sitchin

Description

When Time Began, published in 1993, is the fifth book in Zechariah Sitchin’s Earth Chronicles series. In this work, Sitchin focuses on the origins of human concepts of time and calendar systems, linking them to the supposed influence of the Anunnaki, the extraterrestrial beings he posits as central to the development of ancient civilizations.

Key Themes and Ideas:

1. The Role of the Anunnaki in Defining Time: Sitchin suggests that the measurement and understanding of time in ancient civilizations, particularly the Sumerians, originated from the extraterrestrial Anunnaki. He claims that the Anunnaki introduced advanced calendrical systems and astronomical knowledge, embedding their understanding of cosmic cycles into early human cultures.
2. The Sumerian Calendar and Astronomy: Sitchin delves into the sophistication of the Sumerian calendar, asserting that its accuracy and complexity indicate knowledge far beyond the capabilities of a Bronze Age civilization. He argues that the Sumerian understanding of celestial events, such as lunar cycles and solar years, reflects teachings from the Anunnaki.
3. Sacred Sites as Timekeepers: The book examines ancient monuments and sites, such as Stonehenge, the pyramids of Giza, and the ziggurats of Mesopotamia, claiming they were designed as observatories or timekeeping devices. Sitchin interprets their alignment with celestial bodies as evidence of advanced astronomical knowledge imparted by extraterrestrials.
4. Astrological and Religious Implications: Sitchin explores how the measurement of time influenced religious and astrological systems. He ties the rise of astrology to the Anunnaki’s supposed influence, suggesting that ancient deities were representations of celestial bodies or cosmic cycles understood by extraterrestrials.
5. The Link Between Time and Power: The book discusses the association of timekeeping with ruling elites in ancient societies. Sitchin theorizes that the ability to predict celestial events, such as eclipses or solstices, gave priest-kings authority, as this knowledge was perceived as divine or otherworldly in origin.

Criticism:

As with his other works, When Time Began has been heavily criticized by mainstream historians, archaeologists, and scientists. The key points of contention include:

• Misinterpretation of Texts: Scholars argue that Sitchin’s interpretations of Sumerian cuneiform texts often deviate significantly from accepted translations and understanding.
• Speculative Connections: His conclusions about extraterrestrial influence are based on speculative interpretations rather than empirical evidence.
• Alternative Explanations Ignored: Critics point out that the development of ancient calendars and astronomical systems can be explained through human innovation and observation over millennia.

Impact:

Despite the skepticism, When Time Began remains influential among proponents of alternative history and ancient astronaut theories. It continues to appeal to readers intrigued by the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement in early human development and the mysteries of ancient monuments and calendars.