The Divine Lineage of the Underworld: A Legacy of Healing and Trees
The divine lineage of the underworld after Nergal and Ereshkigal continues for three more generations, producing Ningishzidda, Ninazu, and Damu. This lineage is strongly associated with both trees and medicine. This connection can be explained by the historical relationship between plants, herbs, and healing, as most ancient medicinal remedies were derived from botanical sources.
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The Descent of Gods into the Underworld: A Cyclical Myth
The descent of gods into the underworld in Sumerian and Babylonian mythology raises many questions about its significance in nature. A common theme emerges among these deities Hey are often associated with the renewal and revitalization of nature. This cycle parallels the transition between spring and summer or the balance between fertility and drought.
The Mystery of the Abducted Gods: Celestial and Natural Phenomena
The abduction of gods is also linked to natural events, such as the monthly disappearance of the moon or catastrophic occurrences. For example, the disappearance of Marduk has been connected to celestial changes. The abduction of Ninurta is mentioned in a text from Adab, where one of his titles is "Lilu." His mother, the goddess Ninhursag, and his sister Egime lament his loss. Ninhursag’s husband, Sulpae, whose name means "the radiant youth," is described as both a god of war and fertility, and his planetary association is with Jupiter—the same as Marduk’s.
Sulpae and Ninhursag had three offspring: Ashgi, Mulil, and Lisin. Mulil, also called "Lilu," might be identical to Ninurta, as he is among the gods who periodically descend into the underworld.
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The Sin Eclipse: A Battle Against Evil Spirits
The attack on the moon god Sin explains lunar eclipses. The dark phase of the moon, called "Bubulu," was believed to be caused by an assault from malevolent spirits. Ancient texts describe how:
"The underworld grew stronger, ruled by two powerful sovereigns who bore a son, Ningishzidda, the lord of the good tree, the mighty serpent who fears nothing. Ningishzidda married the goddess Ninazimua, and their son, Damu, became the god of healing. He ascended from the earth into the trees and settled within their bark. Damu is the god who emerges from the river and enters every tree."
As the underworld's influence grew, Ereshkigal devised a grand scheme to capture all the gods of the upper world to solidify her rule over both realms. She orchestrated a well-planned abduction with her ministers, soldiers, and demons. Among her captives were:
- Stran, the god of Tell Uqair
- Ningirsu, the war god of Lagash (who was later rescued by his wife Bau)
- Bau herself
- Ashur
- Tispak
- Ninurta, whose mother Ninhursag and sister Egime mourned him deeply
Egime cried out:
"Rise from your grave, my brother! Your mother longs for you. She yearns to hear your sweet lips and your eloquent words. Do not leave her in sorrow. Rise from your grave, O Enlil, and do not bring grief upon her."
From his prison, Ninurta replied:
"Free me, my sister! Do not rebuke me. I am not tall enough to be seen. My grave is made of the dust of the underworld, and I lie among the wicked. My sleep is troubled, and I cannot rise."
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The Capture of Sin: A Cosmic Crisis
The moon god Sin was also abducted when seven malevolent spirits surrounded him in fury, plunging the world into darkness. Enlil, alarmed by Sin’s eclipse, ordered his minister Nusku:
"Minister Nusku, deliver a message to the depths. Inform Ea of my son Sin’s suffering in the heavens."
Upon hearing this plea, Ea struck his thigh in distress and lamented. He then commanded Marduk to rescue Sin, but Ereshkigal held Marduk captive for several days each month.
The Underworld’s Grip on Marduk: A Ritual of Renewal
Marduk’s abduction into the underworld was influenced by the popular rituals of Tammuz. Babylonian myths reflect this event, which even became part of the Akitu Festival (New Year’s celebrations). During these rites, Marduk’s disappearance was reenacted, symbolizing his journey to the mountain, his temporary death, and his ritual resurrection.
This myth represents an attempt to return to the primordial era of creation by symbolically ending the current time cycle. Marduk’s death and revival ensure the renewal of fertility and abundance. Over time, the Babylonian New Year festival distanced itself from Tammuz and Ishtar’s story, solidifying Marduk’s prominence. The king became the true hero of the sacred marriage ritual, no longer serving as Tammuz’s proxy as in Sumerian tradition—marking a profound religious transformation.
The Gods Rally Against Ereshkigal
Ereshkigal, reveling in her victory, imposed punishment upon the gods by kidnapping Marduk from his celestial palace. The deities erupted in chaos, searching for their king. They sought their lord, his son Nabu, and his wife Sarpanitum.
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However, Marduk did not remain captive for long. On the first day of the New Year, he broke free from his prison, and the gods rejoiced. Grand celebrations erupted, praising his return. The gods honored Marduk and Sin for their liberation. Ishtar, Sin’s radiant daughter, sat beside him, embodying divine beauty and celestial grace.
The gods proclaimed:
"Praise be to Ishtar, the most revered goddess among the Igigi! She embodies joy, love, and desire. At her appearance, delight fills the heavens. She is crowned with the horned tiara, her eyes shining with brilliance. Holding the fates of all things in her hands, she exudes both compassion and authority. Who can rival her greatness? Ishtar stands supreme, her words respected, and her judgment honored among the gods. She is their sovereign, and they faithfully follow her command. Before her, all bow in reverence, basking in her divine radiance."
In the sacred hall of the gods, she sat alongside her consort, exchanging wisdom and counsel. The gods assembled before her, eagerly listening to their celestial decree.
This intricate mythology reveals the deep-rooted beliefs of the Sumerians and Babylonians. The divine struggles reflect the cycles of nature, celestial events, and the ever-renewing power of life and death. Through these sacred tales, the ancients sought to understand their world, honoring the gods who governed the forces of existence.