MYTHOLOGY
Nanna’s Journey to Nippur: A Tale of Divine Devotion and Sacred Blessings
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Welcome to the enchanting world of Sumerian mythology, where gods and mortals shared a realm of mystery and magic. Our story today is “Nanna’s Journey to Nippur,” a tale that takes us on an adventure through the ancient land of Sumer.
Nanna, also known as Ašimbabbar, was the revered moon god. One day, he decided to embark on a grand journey to the sacred city of Nibru, known today as Nippur. Nanna’s goal was to visit the house of Enlil, the mighty god of air and earth, and offer his respects and gifts.
Before setting off, Nanna prepared meticulously. He constructed a magnificent barge, adorned with symbols of the moon and stars. The barge was not just a vessel but a testament to his divine power and dedication. Nanna gathered precious offerings from his followers and readied himself for the challenges ahead.
As he traveled, Nanna passed through various cities, each with its own unique deity. These encounters were both tests and diversions, each one attempting to sway him from his path. But Nanna remained steadfast, guided by his unwavering resolve and the light of the moon.
Finally, Nanna reached Nippur. He was welcomed warmly by Enlil. The offerings he brought were received with great honor. Nanna’s journey, marked by determination and resilience, culminated in a celebration of his success and devotion.
Through Nanna’s journey, we glimpse the traditions of the ancient world, the reverence for the gods, and the rich tapestry of Sumerian culture.
Nanna’s Resolve
Nanna, the mighty moon god, casting his silvery light across the night sky felt a deep longing in his heart. He yearned to visit the city of his mother and father, the great gods Enlil and Ninlil.
Enlil, the mighty god of air, earth, and storms, wielded immense power and was considered the ruler of the gods. His presence commanded respect and fear, shaping the fate of both mortals and immortals.
Beside him stood Ninlil, the goddess of grain and the wind. She embodied fertility, nurturing the earth and ensuring bountiful harvests. Together, Enlil and Ninlil not only governed natural forces but also guided the moral and spiritual order of the ancient Sumerians.
With unwavering resolve, Nanna made up his mind. He would journey to Nippur, the sacred city. It was not just any city; it was the home of his divine parents. The thought of seeing them filled him with purpose and excitement.
Standing tall, Nanna declared, “I, the hero, will set off for my city. I will go to my father, Enlil. I will visit my mother, Ninlil.” His words echoed with determination. He knew this journey was more than a visit; it was a sacred quest.
His mind was fixed on the shimmering city. The anticipation of the journey filled him with energy. Nanna’s eyes sparkled like the moon itself. He was ready to embark on this divine adventure, to bridge the heavens and the earth.
Description of Nippur
Nippur, the sacred city, stood gleaming under the sun. It was a place of pure light, where the divine and earthly realms intertwined. The air in Nippur was filled with a sense of mystery and magic, a place where gods walked among men.
The people revered Enlil and the great mother Ninlil in this city of light. They often saw Ninlil clothed in fine linen, a symbol of purity and grace. Her presence filled Nippur with a sense of peace and protection.
Black and white birch trees grew in Nippur, their leaves rustling with ancient secrets. These trees were not just ordinary; they stood in the sanctuaries, sacred spaces filled with divine energy. The trees whispered stories of the gods to those who listened.
Before even the fabled land of Dilmun the godly paradise existed, Nippur was already a flourishing city. Palm trees lined its streets, their fronds swaying gently in the breeze. These palms were ancient, their roots reaching deep into the earth, connecting the present to the distant past.
Nippur’s sanctuaries were places of worship and reverence. They were built in harmony with nature, reflecting the gods’ love for the earth. Every stone and tree in Nippur held a piece of divine essence, making the city a living testament to the gods’ power and grace.
Thus Nanna, making up his mind, decided to make the journey to this city of light.
Gathering of Materials
In order to reach the city, Nanna decided to build a barge. This grand barge required the finest materials from all corners of the ancient world. This was no simple task. It was a quest in itself, a journey that spanned mountains, forests, and rivers.
He sent his messengers far and wide.
- From Tummal, (modern day Iraq) they brought back reeds, tall and sturdy.
- The Abzu, the sacred underground water source, provided thick, dark pitch to seal the barge.
- From Du-ašaga (now a lost city) came rushes, their flexibility perfect for weaving and binding.
- The cypress forests offered strakes, long and strong, to frame the vessel.
- The forests of Kug-nuna (location lost to us) gave ribbing, the bones that would give the barge its strength.
Nanna’s people journeyed to the fragrant cedar mountains for beams, prized for their durability and sweet scent.
From the distant forests of Ebla (modern day Syria) came planking, smooth and solid, to cover the barge. Each material was chosen with care, each piece a gift from the earth.
As the materials arrived, Nanna’s vision began to take form. The reeds, pitch, and rushes from Tummal and the abzu arrived first, ready to be woven and sealed. Next came the strakes from the cypress forest, then the ribbing from Kug-nuna. The fragrant cedar beams were brought down from the mountains, followed by the planking from Ebla.
Nanna oversaw the work with a watchful eye. He knew that this barge was more than just a vessel; it was a symbol of faith and devotion, a bridge between the realms of men and gods, crafted from the finest gifts of the earth.
Preparation for Departure
Nanna , the moon god, stood before his grand barge, ready to announce his sacred journey. With a voice that echoed through the heavens, he declared his intention to travel to the house of Enlil, his divine father.
The preparations for this journey were immense. Nanna needed to gather offerings, each one chosen with care and reverence. He started with the bulls, mighty and strong, symbols of power and fertility. These would be gifts for the cow-pen of Enlil.
Next, he collected fat sheep, their wool soft and white, perfect for the house of Enlil. Goats, agile and sure-footed, were also chosen. They would be a sign of sustenance and strength.
But the offerings did not stop there. Nanna gathered porcupines, creatures of mystery and protection. He sought out turtles, symbols of longevity and wisdom. Each animal had a purpose, each one a message to the gods.
Birds were next, their songs a tribute to the divine. Small birds, each with vibrant feathers and melodic voices, were carefully caught. Carp was gathered from the rivers, their shimmering scales reflecting the light of the moon.
Nanna knew that these offerings were more than just gifts. They were symbols of his devotion and the connection between the gods and the earthly realm. Each one was a piece of his soul, a part of the sacred bond that he carried with him.
As the day of departure drew near, Nanna loaded the barge with these precious offerings. The animals, the birds, the fish—all were ready to embark on this holy journey. The air was filled with anticipation and reverence.
With everything in place, Nanna stood ready to sail to the house of Enlil, his heart full of purpose and faith.
Departure and Encounters with Cities
Nanna’s grand barge, laden with sacred offerings, set sail from the shores of his home. The moon god stood at the helm, his eyes fixed on the distant city of Nippur. The journey had begun. His grand city of Ur was behind him and his journey lay ahead.
Enegir
First, the barge glided towards Enegir. The city shimmered in the morning light, its temples standing tall. As Nanna approached, Ningirida the beautiful goddess of Enegir came forward, laying out flour and spreading bran as an offering. “Welcome, O boat of Nanna – Suen!” she called and welcomed him to her city promising abundant supplies of ghee, syrup and wine. In return requesting that he stop and share the gifts he is carrying. But Nanna’s barge did not linger. With a gentle push from the wind, it continued on its sacred path.
Larsa
Next the journey then brought Nanna to Larsa. The city was known for its vibrant markets and sacred groves. Here too, Sherida, the gorgeous goddess of Larsa welcomed the barge with offerings. “May your journey be blessed, O Nanna ,” she said. Sherida, the goddess of dawn, offered him multiple gifts and invited him to stay. But Nanna replied that he is on the quest to visit Nippur. Thus, the barge, steadfast and true, sailed on.
Uruk
As the barge neared Uruk (Unug), the city’s goddess, the mighty Inanna, came to greet her father Nanna. She spread out flour and poured precious oils, hoping to honor the moon god and obtain some of the cargo. “Welcome, O boat of my father!” she chanted. She offered the gifts of the city inviting Nanna to stop. Still, the barge did not stop, it did not give her its cargo, its destination still ahead. All Nanna did was reply that he was going to Nippur.
Shuruppag
Shuruppag was next. Known as the “City of Healing” and wisdom, Shuruppag was a hub of learning and culture. Gatumdug (Ninunuga), the goddess of Shuruppag and the goddess of healing, laid out offerings with reverence. “O boat of Nanna-Suen, welcome to our city!” she exclaimed. She enticed Nanna to stop and enjoy wine and gifts of the city. But Nanna’s barge, filled with divine purpose, continued its voyage.
Tummal
Finally, the barge getting closer to Nippur, approached Tummal. This city already belonged to his parents Enlil and Ninlil. It was rich in sacred traditions and had a temple dedicated to Enlil and Ninlil adoring its center. The city welcomed Nanna with open arms. Ninlil, Nanna’s mother and the goddess of Tummal greeted Nanna and offered gifts and blessings, her voice filled with respect. “Welcome, O boat of the princely son!” she cried. She enticed him to linger and stay with her. Yet, the barge, destined for Nippur, did not linger. Nanna aching to see his mother, knew that it was not his final destination. The only reply he provided her was, “I am going to Nippur”.
Arrival at Nippur
The journey was long, but finally, Nanna’s barge reached the Shining Quay in Nippur. The city gleamed under the celestial light, a beacon of divinity. Nanna , the moon god, stood tall and proud as his vessel docked at the sacred quay.
With a voice that echoed through the heavens, he called out to the city’s gatekeeper, “Open the house, Kalkal! Open the house of Enlil!” Kalkal, the faithful porter, heard the call and hurried to the gates.
The moment was filled with anticipation and reverence. The divine visit had arrived.
Presentation of Offerings
As the gates opened, Nanna presented his offerings. He chose each gift with care, symbolizing his devotion and respect. Nanna brought forth mighty bulls for the cow-pen, a sign of strength and fertility. Fattened sheep followed, their wool soft and pure, meant for Enlil’s house.
Nanna then presented agile and sure-footed goats next. Symbolizing sustenance and resilience. He offered porcupines with reverence, embodying mystery and protection. And also brought forth turtles, representing wisdom and longevity.
Nanna carefully presented birds of all kinds, with vibrant feathers and melodic songs. Their beauty and grace paid tribute to the divine. He offered carp shimmering in the light as signs of life and abundance.
Nanna did not stop there. He filled baskets with eggs, symbols of new beginnings and fertility. Reeds, both old and fresh, were offered to ensure the thriving of the sacred lands. Each offering was a piece of his devotion, a part of the sacred bond between the gods and their people.
Turning to Kalkal, Nanna made a solemn promise. “I will give you that which is in the prow of the boat as a first offering, and I will give you that which is in the stern of the boat as a last offering.” His words were filled with commitment and reverence.
Kalkal, rejoicing, opened the house of Enlil. With joy and reverence, the offerings were accepted. Nanna’s heart swelled with satisfaction. His journey, marked by devotion and purpose, had reached its sacred destination.
Reception by Enlil
Inside, Enlil stood waiting. His presence was majestic, a beacon of power and grace. Enlil’s face lit up as he saw his son. He welcomed Nanna with open arms.
“Come, Nanna ,” Enlil said warmly. He offered sweet cakes, delicious and tempting. He poured the finest beer, golden and rich. There were more provisions, each one a testament to Enlil’s love and hospitality.
Nanna felt the warmth of his father’s welcome. The offerings and provisions were perfect. It was a feast fit for the gods, a celebration of their bond.
Nanna’s Request
With gratitude in his heart, Nanna spoke. “Father, I am truly satisfied with your hospitality,” he said. “You have given me everything I could wish for.”
But Nanna had one more request. “As I prepare to return to Urim, I ask for your blessings,” he said. “Bless my journey, father, so I may travel safely and bring prosperity to our people.”
Enlil listened with a kind smile. He knew the importance of his son’s journey. The blessings Nanna sought were vital, not just for him but for all who depended on the moon god’s protection and favor.
The scene was filled with divine love and respect. Nanna’s request was more than a simple wish. It was a sacred bond between father and son, a promise of protection and prosperity.
Enlil’s eyes shone with approval. He would grant the blessings and safeguard Nanna’s journey.
Blessings and Departure to Urim
Enlil, with a voice full of wisdom, granted Nanna the blessings he sought. “For your journey,” Enlil declared, “I grant you the carp-flood in the river. Let your waters be filled with life.”
“In the fields, I give you speckled barley,” Enlil continued. “May your lands yield abundant harvests.” He looked upon the reeds and blessed them, both old and fresh. “These will thrive along your journey.”
From the forests, Enlil gifted the ibex and wild ram. “Your herds will grow strong,” he promised. “The mašgurum tree of the high plains will flourish,” Enlil added, “its branches heavy with fruit.”
In the orchards, syrup and wine flowed freely. “May your cups be ever full,” Enlil said with a smile. “And in your palace, I bestow upon you long life,” he concluded, “so you may rule with wisdom and grace.”
With these blessings, Nanna prepared to depart. His heart was filled with gratitude. The journey to Urim awaited, and he felt the power of Enlil’s gifts surrounding him.
Nanna set off for Urim, his barge now a vessel of divine blessings. The waters sparkled with promise, and the lands ahead seemed more fertile and rich. He knew the journey would be prosperous, guided by the hand of his father.
Final Benediction
As Nanna embarked on his journey, a final and most powerful blessing echoed through the heavens. “May Nanna be born for seven days on his holy throne,” the voice proclaimed. It was a sacred benediction from Enlil.
Gods and people believed the number seven had magical properties. They used it in amulets and rituals to protect against evil and invoke divine favor. They often repeated actions or incantations seven times as they thought it would amplify their power.
This blessing was more than words; it was a divine promise. It ensured that Nanna’s reign would be long and fruitful. His connection to the divine would remain strong, guiding him and his people.
Thus Enlil blessed the journey to Urim, not just with gifts, but with his enduring power. Nanna’s story, rich with mystery and faith, stood as a testament to the timeless bond between the heavens and the earth.
The Journey and Its Lessons
Nanna’s journey to Nippur was more than a physical voyage. It was a testament to the Sumerian beliefs in devotion and perseverance. The moon god never wavered from his goal, staying true to his path despite the many cities and temptations along the way. Enegir, Larsa, Uruk, Shuruppag, and Tummal each welcomed him with open arms, but he pressed on, driven by his divine purpose.
Throughout his journey, Nanna gathered and presented offerings. Bulls, sheep, goats, birds, carp, and sacred reeds were all chosen with care. These gifts symbolized the deep respect and gratitude the Sumerians held for their gods. By offering these treasures, they sought to honor the divine and ensure continued blessings and prosperity. The act of giving was a powerful ritual, reinforcing the bond between the gods and their people.
Reaching the Final Destination
Finally, Nanna arrived at Nippur, the shining city, and reaped the rewards of his efforts. Enlil welcomed him with open arms, offering sweet cakes, fine beer, and other provisions. The blessings granted by Enlil ensured Nanna’s journey was not just successful, but filled with prosperity and protection. This moment underscores the Sumerian belief in the rewards of perseverance and faith. Reaching the final destination brought fulfillment and divine favor, reinforcing the importance of completing one’s journey with honor and dedication.
References
Faculty of Oriental Studies, Nanna-Suen’s journey to Nibru (The Electronic Text Corpus of Sumerian Literature, 2003) https://etcsl.orinst.ox.ac.uk/cgi-bin/etcsl.cgi?text=t.1.5.1
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