Question

If something was referred to as a 'veritable Babylon', what exactly would that mean?

Answer 1

Babylon was an powerful city of ancient times. One of the Seven Wonders of the World was said to have been located there (the Hanging Gardens). But according to the Bible, it was seen as a symbol of pagan tradition and moral evil. So needles to say, it didn't have a great reputation within its pages and would be used to indicate the same elsewhere.

So when someone says that a place is a 'veritable Babylon', they're basically saying that it's wicked and morally bankrupt.

Answer 2

That's possible. I was thinking that it was more in reference to the actual Hanging Gardens, as if to say whatever is being referred to is as bountiful as the genuine Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Just a thought.