Let’s face it: no one questions it, right? But the truth is that this organization of time was decided about 4,000 years ago! That’s right, our clocks work at intervals of sixty because the Sumerians and Babylonians, way back in the distant past, decided that way. Curious, right?
Mystery of the Babylonians: Where Did These Numbers Come From?
The Babylonians began recording their astronomical beliefs and discoveries in the 14th century BC, approximately 3400 years ago. And it was from these calculations and assumptions that many of our most common and basic numbers emerged. You know that numbering system we use today, based on ten? Well, the Sumerians had a different one: the sexagesimal system, based on the number sixty. Try saying “sexagesimal” fast six times!
Why Sixty? The Magic Number of the Ancients
The number sixty is super versatile! It is divisible by the first six natural numbers (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) and also by 10, 12, 15, 20 and 30. This makes dividing a lot easier, right? The number sixty has eleven easy divisors, which makes dividing into simple groups a breeze. Therefore, our clocks use this logic: we can divide the hours into quarters (15 minutes), halves (30 minutes) and even intervals of ten (10 minutes). These divisions are still the most used today. Who hasn’t said “I’ll be there in ten minutes” or “half an hour” several times a day?
Clocks, Years and Circles: The Babylonian Influence
And it’s not just the watches! The Babylonians also divided the year into 360 days (sixty times six) and created the circle with 360 degrees. All these numbers come from the sexagesimal system. Of course, our calendar was adjusted to 365.25 days to match the actual astronomical year, but they weren’t too far off!
When the Bills Don’t Add Up…
Using a sexagesimal system by the ancients complicates life for those looking for numerical patterns and religious proportions today. Some ancient astronaut theorists claim to have found patterns pointing to the speed of light in ancient ruins, but the truth is that the people who built these ruins used a completely different numbering system. The numbers of today and those of the past do not coincide or look alike!
Next Time You Check the Clock…
Think of the Babylonians! They were the ones who gave us this watch. The old sexagesimal system is still present in many aspects of our lives, and most people are not even aware of its influence. The decimal system is great and works well for us today (especially if you use the metric system), but the sexagesimal system had its own advantages, which is why it is still partially alive today. Fascinating, right?
Source: Atrevida
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
