What is Mesopotamia (SUMER): Gods of Elements in Leeming's book: The world of myth: an arthrology 3rd edition in pg. 89-90
Mesopotamia was an ancient civilization situated in the region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which is now modern-day Iraq. It was the birthplace of many influential inventions and advancements, including writing, agriculture, and irrigation systems.
In Leeming's book, The World of Myth, the gods of elements in Sumerian mythology were:
- Anu: The god of the sky and heavens
- Enlil: The god of the wind and storms
- Enki: The god of water, wisdom, and crafts
- Ninhursag: The goddess of fertility and the earth
- Nanna: The god of the moon and wisdom
These gods played significant roles in Sumerian religion and were often depicted as anthropomorphic beings with human-like personalities and characteristics. They were worshiped through elaborate ceremonies, sacrifices, and offerings in hopes of gaining their favor and protection.
In Leeming's book "The World of Myth: An Anthology," 3rd edition, pages 89-90, he discusses the gods of elements in Mesopotamia (Sumer). Mesopotamia was an ancient civilization that existed in the region of modern-day Iraq and Syria. It is often referred to as the "cradle of civilization" because it is where some of the earliest known cities and empires emerged.
In Mesopotamian mythology, the gods were often associated with natural elements such as water, earth, and sky. Here are some of the major gods of elements mentioned on pages 89-90:
1. Enki (Ea): Enki was the god of fresh water, wisdom, and knowledge. He was associated with the Abzu, an underground, freshwater source believed to be the origin of all life.
2. Enlil: Enlil was the god of air, wind, and storms. He played a significant role in maintaining order and was responsible for sending both beneficial winds and destructive storms.
3. Anu: Anu was the god of the sky. He was seen as the ruler of all the gods and held the power to decide the fate of humanity.
4. Ninhursag: Ninhursag was the goddess of the earth and fertility. She was associated with the nurturing and life-giving qualities of the earth.
5. Ninlil: Ninlil was the goddess of the air and married to Enlil. She was believed to have been impregnated by the wind and gave birth to many important gods and goddesses.
Overall, these gods represented the fundamental elements of the natural world and played crucial roles in the cosmology and mythology of Mesopotamia (Sumer).