Pantheon:
Deity Of:
Boundaries, Magic, Healing
Other Names (a.k.a.):
King of Snakes, Lord Healer
Ninazu was born in the underworld, where his mother Ninlil followed Enlil.
As a result he was linked to vegetation and agriculture, similar to other dying and returning gods.
Was worshiped as a deity associated with the underworld, snakes, and vegetation.
He was associated with magic, healing, and boundaries, showcasing versatility in divine attributes.
Ninazu was known as the “Lord Healer” in Sumerian mythology. His mythology often intertwined with themes of healing and protection. But he was not a major healing deity.
He had rare appearances in medical texts for incantations against snake bites.
Referred to as the “king of the snakes” in certain incantations. He shared associations with snakes, a prevalent motif in Mesopotamian mythology.
Often depicted with symbols like snakes and the lion-dragon (mušḫuššu), reflecting his association with the underworld and warfare.
Ninazu was revered as a guardian deity of boundaries and agriculture.
He shared associations with other deities such as Ereshkigal, Ningirida, and Ningishzida. Thus, indicating familial and mythological connections within the pantheon.
Consorts:
Ningirida – goddess of Protective Deity of Enegir
Some say, though not confirmed, a husband of Ereshkigal or Ninsutu
Ereshkigal – goddess of Underworld as Queen of The Dead
Ninsutu – goddess of Healing
Children:
Ningishzida – god of God Trees and the Underworld
Ninazu wielded association with snakes, earning him the title ‘king of the snakes’ in Ur III and Old Babylonian incantations.
He brandished two maces, though no certain artistic representations identified him.
Textual sources linked Ninazu with symbols such as snakes and the “snake-dragon” mushussu.
An Early Dynastic zami hymn likened him to a black dog, a symbol of death in Mesopotamian incantations and omens.
An Early Dynastic period seal portrayed Ninazu as a god standing on the back of a lion with a snake’s tail.
Another seal from the Old Akkadian period depicted him standing on a dragon.
A stone from third millennium Ešnunna depicted him as a scaled deity.
Weapons:
Mace – He was both described and possibly depicted as armed with two maces.
Sacred Animals:
Snake – Symbolically linked with snakes, considered the “king of the snakes,” signifying his connection to the underworld and healing.
Associated with the snake-dragon (mušḫuššu), reflecting his dominion over boundaries and protection.
Mushussu was a scaly animal with hind legs resembling the talons of an eagle, lion-like forelimbs, a long neck, and a tail. Had two horns on its head, a snake-like tongue, and a crest.
Symbolism:
Snake/ Snake Dragon
Symbolism includes snakes and the snake-dragon Mushussu, representing power, protection, and the underworld.
Celestial Associations:
Elam Star – “The Elam star” in Mesopotamian astronomy, was at times associated with Mars.
Realms:
Kur: Sumerian Underworld
Revered as a deity of the underworld, symbolizing his dominion over the realm of the deceased and spiritual aspects.
Worship Places:
Ninazu was venerated in cities like Enegi and Ešnunna, where temples dedicated to him were established.
His primary cult center was Enegi, located between Ur and Uruk, with a temple known as Egidda, meaning “sealed house” or “storehouse.”
Another significant center of worship was Ešnunna, where his temple was called Esikil, meaning “pure house.”
Rituals & Divinations:
Offerings and rituals were conducted in temples dedicated to Ninazu, honoring his diverse attributes as a deity of healing, warfare, and the underworld.
Rituals included prayers, incantations, and sacrifices to appease Ninazu and seek his favor.
Festivals:
The festival of Ninazu in Ur during the 6th month involved offerings to deceased kings and priestesses. Thus, emphasizing his role in the afterlife.
In “How Grain Came to Sumer,” Ninazu and his brother delivered barley and flax to humans, who previously ate grass like sheep.
In “Enlil and Ninlil ” myth the story of Ninazu begins with his birth. He was called ‘the lord who stretches the measuring line over the fields’
Ninazu’s presence in the underworld, possibly as a steward or guardian, is hinted at in lamentations and rituals honoring deceased kings and priestesses.
Visit All Sumerian Gods & Goddesses
- J.A. Coleman, The Dictionary of Mythology: An A-Z of Themes, Legends, and Heroes (Barnes & Noble, Inc., 2007)
- Kathryn Stevens, ‘Ninazu (god)’, Ancient Mesopotamian Gods and Goddesses (Oracc and the UK Higher Education Academy, 2019)
- Matt Clayton, Sumerian Mythology: Captivating Myths Of Gods, Goddesses, And Legendary Creatures of Ancient Sumer and Their Importance To The Sumerians (Captivating History, 2019)
- Multiple Authors, Ninazu (Wikipedia.com, December 10, 2023)