Ancient Akkadian Language Links Happiness to Liver, Not Heart

A recent study published in the journal iScience reveals that the ancient Akkadian language, used in Mesopotamia from 934-612 BC, associates happiness with the liver rather than the heart, a stark contrast to modern emotional expressions. The research involved analyzing one million words from cuneiform texts, highlighting how bodily representations of emotions vary across cultures and time periods. While contemporary expressions of happiness often reference the heart, ancient Akkadians expressed joy through terms related to the liver, indicating a deeper cultural significance in how emotions are perceived and articulated. The study also found that anger, typically felt in the upper body today, was linked to the feet in ancient Mesopotamian culture. This research underscores the need for further exploration into how emotions are represented in different cultures and historical contexts.