Temples and their Influence in Time

Chapter 8 gives us a very close look at the role of religion and temples in the empire that Babylon controlled. If we consider the account of Uruk given by Liverani with the account of Babylon centuries later it would seem that though the power of the temple may have decreased it remained powerful and very influential.
This can be seen in part by the wealth it still commanded. The wealth of the temple is mentioned in several passages in chapter 8. The author gave a few pieces of information in regards to Ishtar and her temple. The author states that the goddess received food which would have been equal to the rations of a 100 people, it goes on to tell of how the temple possessed 99 pieces of gold and silver. The wealth of the temple is emphasized in other places as well.
We see the power of the temple again when the author discusses briefly the results of one kings actions that adversely effected the temple. Nabonidus had abandoned his throne for ten years and had thus not made it possible for the city to celebrate certain holidays. His actions angered the priests and they mentioned this specifically in their grievances. It would seem then that both the temples and these celebrations were still important.  Perhaps this is why Gilgamesh was so eager to insure there would have celebrations "twice over" upon his return from the battle with the dangerous Humbaba.  He not only liked a good time but appreciated the power the temple still had very real power.