{"id":2856,"date":"2024-11-18T23:48:35","date_gmt":"2024-11-18T23:48:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vanessasdomain.com\/?page_id=2856"},"modified":"2024-11-18T23:50:35","modified_gmt":"2024-11-18T23:50:35","slug":"the-seven-tablets-of-the-history-of-creation","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/vanessasdomain.com\/?page_id=2856","title":{"rendered":"The Seven Tablets of the History of Creation"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Leonard William King<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Babylonian creation epic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The First Tablet<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

1. When in the height heaven was not named,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. And the earth beneath did not yet bear a name,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. And the primeval Aps\u00fb, who begat them,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. And chaos, Tiamat, the mother of them both,\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Their waters were mingled together,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. And no field was formed, no marsh was to be seen;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. When of the gods none had been called into being,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. And none bore a name, and no destinies [were ordained];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Then were created the gods in the midst of [heaven],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Lahmu and Lahamu were called into being […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Ages increased, […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. Then Anshar and Kishar were created, and over them […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Long were the days, then there came forth […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Anu, their son, […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Anshar and Anu […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. And the god Anu […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. Nudimmud, whom his fathers [his] begetters […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. Abounding in all wisdom, […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. He was exceeding strong […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. He had no rival […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. (Thus) were established and [were … the great gods ].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22 . But T[iamat and \u00c2ps\u00fb] were (still) in confusion […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. They were troubled and […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. In disorder … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

26. And Tiamat roared […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. Aps\u00fb was not diminished in might […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

27. She smote, and their deeds […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

28. Their way was evil … […] …<\/p>\n\n\n\n

29. Then Aps\u00fb, the begetter of the great gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

30. Cried unto Mummu, his minister, and said unto him:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

31. “O Mummu, thou minister that rejoicest my spirit,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

32. “Come, unto Tiamat let us [go]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

33. So they went and before Tiamat they lay down,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

34. They consulted on a plan with regard to the gods [their sons].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

35. Aps\u00fb opened his mouth [and spake],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

36. And unto Tiamat, the glistening one, he addressed [the word]:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

37. “[…] their way […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38. “By day I cannot rest, by night [I cannot lie down (in peace)].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

39. “But I will destroy their way, I will […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

40. “Let there be lamentation, and let us lie down (again in peace).”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

41. When Tiamat [heard] these words,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

42. She raged and cried aloud […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

43. [She …] grievously […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

44. She uttered a curse, and unto [Aps\u00fb she spake]:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

45. “What then shall we [do]?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

46. “Let their way be made difficult, and let us [lie down (again) in peace].”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

47. Mummu answered, and gave counsel unto Aps\u00fb,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

48. […] and hostile (to the gods) was the counsel Mu[mmu gave]:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

49. “Come, their way is strong, but thou shalt destroy [it];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

50. “Then by day shalt thou have rest, by night shalt thou lie down (in peace).”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

51. Aps\u00fb [hearkened unto] him and his countenance grew bright,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

52. [Since] he (i.e. Mummu) planned evil against the gods his sons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

53. […] he was afraid […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

54. His knees [became weak], they gave way beneath him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

55. [Because of the evil] which their first-born had planned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

56. […] their […] they altered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

58. Lamentation […] they sat in [sorrow] ‘<\/p>\n\n\n\n

57. […] they […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

59. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

60. Then Ea, who knoweth all that [is], went up and he beheld their muttering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

61. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

62. […] … his pure incantation<\/p>\n\n\n\n

63. […] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

64. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

65. […] misery<\/p>\n\n\n\n

66. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

67. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[Lines 68-82 are wanting.]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

83. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

84 […] …<\/p>\n\n\n\n

85. […] the god Anu,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

86. [… an aven]ger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

87. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

88. […] and he shall confound Tiamat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

89. […] he …<\/p>\n\n\n\n

90. […] for ever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

91. […] the evil,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

92. […] … he spake:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

93. “[…] thy […] he hath conquered and<\/p>\n\n\n\n

94. ” […] he [weepeth] and sitteth in tribulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

95. “[…] of fear,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

96. “[…] we shall not lie down (in peace).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

97. “[…] Aps\u00fb is laid waste,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

98. “[…] and Mummu, who were taken captive, in […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

99. “[…] thou didst, …<\/p>\n\n\n\n

100. “[…] let us lie down (in peace).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

101. “[…] … they will smite […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

102. ” […] let us lie down (in peace).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

103. “[…] thou shalt take vengeance for them,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

104. “[…]unto the tempest shalt thou […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

105. [And Tiamat hearkened unto] the word of the bright god, (and said):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

106. “[…] shalt thou entrust! let us wage [war]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

107. […] the gods in the midst of […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

108. […] for the gods did she create.’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

109. [They banded themselves together and] at the side of Tiamat [they] advanced;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

110. [They were furious, they devised mischief without resting] night and [day].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

111. [They prepared for battle], fuming and raging;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

112. [They joined their forces] and made war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

113. [Ummu-Hubu]r, who formed all things,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

114. [Made in addition] weapons invincible, she spawned monster-serpents,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

115. [Sharp of] tooth, and merciless of fang;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

116. [With poison instead of] blood she filled [their] bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

117. Fierce [monster-vipers] she clothed with terror,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

118. [With splendour] she decked them, [she made them] of lofty stature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

119. [Whoever beheld] them, terror overcame him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

120. Their bodies reared up and none could withstand [their attack].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

121. [She set] up vipers, and dragons, and the (monster) [Lahamu],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

122. [And hurricanes], and raging hounds, and scorpion-men,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

123. And mighty [tempests], and fish-men, and[rams];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

124. [They bore] cruel weapons, without fear of [the fight].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

125. Her commands [were mighty], [none] could resist them;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

126. After this fashion, huge of stature, [she made] eleven (monsters).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

127. Among the gods who were her sons, inasmuch as he had given [her support],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

128. She exalted Kingu; in their midst [she raised] him [to power].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

129. To march before the forces, to lead [the host],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

130. To give the battle-signal, to advance to the attack,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

131. To direct the battle, to control the fight,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

132. Unto him she entrusted; in [costly raiment] she made him sit, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

133. “I have uttered thy spell, in the assembly of the gods I have raised thee to power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

134. “The dominion over all the gods [have I entrusted unto him].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

135. “Be thou exalted, thou my chosen spouse,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

136. “May they magnify thy name over all [of them … the Anunnaki].”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

137. She gave him the Tablets of Destiny, on [his] breast she laid them, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

138. “Thy command shall not be without avail, and[the word of thy mouth shall be established].”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

139. Now Kingu, (thus) exalted, having received [the power of Anu],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

140. [Decreed] the fate among the gods his sons, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

141. “Let the opening of your mouth [quench] the Fire-god;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

142. “Whoso is exalted in the battle, let him [display (his) might]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Second Tablet<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

1. Tiamat made weighty her handiwork,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. [Evil] she wrought against the gods her children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. [To avenge] Aps\u00fb, Tiamat planned evil,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. But how she had collected her [forces, the god …] unto Ea divulged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Ea [hearkened to] this thing, and<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. He was [grievous]ly afflicted and he sat in sorrow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. [The days] went by, and his anger was appeased,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. And to [the place of] Anshar his father he took[his way].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. [He went] and standing before Anshar, the father who begat him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. [All that] Tiamat had plotted he repeated unto him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. [Saying, “Ti]amat our mother hath conceived a hatred for us,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. “With all her force she rageth, full of wrath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. “All the gods have turned to her,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. “[With] those, whom ye created, they go at her side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. “They are banded together and at the side of Tiamat they advance;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. “They are furious, they devise mischief without resting night and day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. “They prepare for battle, fuming and raging;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. “They have joined their forces and are making war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. “Ummu-Hubur, who formed all things,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. “Hath made in addition weapons invincible, she hath spawned monster-serpents,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. “Sharp of tooth, and merciless of fang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22. “With poison instead of blood she hath filled their bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. “Fierce monster-vipers she hath clothed with terror,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. “With splendour she hath decked them, she hath made them of lofty stature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. “Whoever beholdeth them is overcome by terror,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

26. “Their bodies rear up and none can withstand their attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

27. “She hath set up vipers, and dragons, and the<\/p>\n\n\n\n

28. “And hurricanes and raging hounds, and scorpion-men,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

29. “And mighty tempests, and fish-men and rams;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

30. “They bear cruel weapons, without fear of the fight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

31. “Her commands are mighty, none can resist them;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

32. “After this fashion, huge of stature, hath she made eleven (monsters).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

33. “Among the gods who are her sons, inasmuch as he hath given her support,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

34. She hath exalted Kingu; in their midst she hath raised him to power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

35. “To march before the forces, to lead the host,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

36. “To give the battle-signal, to advance to the attack,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

37. “[To direct] the battle, to control the fight,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38. “Unto him [hath she entrusted]; in costly raiment she hath made him sit, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

39. “‘[I have uttered] thy [spell], in the assembly of the gods I have raised thee to power,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

40. “‘[The dominion over all] the gods have I entrusted [unto thee].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

41. “‘[Be thou exalted], thou [my chosen spouse],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

42. “‘[May they magnify thy name over all of them …] …’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

43. “[She hath given him the Tablets of Destiny, on his breast she] laid them, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

44. “‘[Thy command shall not be without avail], and the [word] of thy mouth shall be established.’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

45. “[Now Kingu, (thus) exalted], having received the power of Anu,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

46. “Decreed the fate [for the gods, her sons], (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

47. “‘Let [the opening of your mouth] quench the Fire-god;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

48. “‘[Whoso is exalted in the battle], let him display (his) might!'”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

49. [When Anshar heard how Tiamat] was mightily in revolt,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

50. […], he bit his lips,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

51. […], his mind was not at peace,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

52. His […], he made a bitter lamentation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

53. […] battle,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

54. “[…] thou ….<\/p>\n\n\n\n

55. “[Mummu and] Aps\u00fb thou hast smitten,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

56. “[But Tiamat hath exalted Kin]gu, and where is one who can oppose her?”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

57. […] deliberation<\/p>\n\n\n\n

58. [ … the … of] the gods, N[u]di[mmud]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[A gap of about ten lines occurs here.]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

69. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

70. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

71. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

72. [Anshar unto] his son addressed [the word]:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

73. “[…] … my mighty hero,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

74. “[Whose] strength [is great] and whose onslaught cannot be withstood,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

75. “[Go] and stand before Tiamat,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

76. “[That] her spirit [may be appeased], that her heart may be merciful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

77. “[But if] she will not hearken unto thy word,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

78. “Our [word] shalt thou speak unto her, that she may be pacified.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

79. [He heard the] word of his father Anshar<\/p>\n\n\n\n

80. And [he directed] his path to her, towards her he took the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

81. Anu [drew nigh], he beheld the muttering of Tiamat,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

82. [But he could not withstand her], and he turned back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

83. […] Anshar<\/p>\n\n\n\n

84. […] he spake unto him:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

85. “[…] upon me<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

104. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

105. […] an avenger […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

106. […] va[liant]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

107. […] in the place of his decision<\/p>\n\n\n\n

108. […] he spake unto him:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

109. “[…] thy father<\/p>\n\n\n\n

110. “Thou art my son, who maketh merciful his heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

111. ” […] to the battle shalt thou draw nigh,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

112. “[…] he that shall behold thee shall have peace.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

113. And the lord rejoiced at the word of his father,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

114. And he drew nigh and stood before Anshar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

115. Anshar beheld him and his heart was filled with joy,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

116. He kissed him on the lips and his fear departed from him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

117. “[O my father], let not the word of thy lips be overcome,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

118. “Let me go, that I may accomplish all that is in thy heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

119. “[O Anshar], let not the word of thy lips be overcome,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

120. “. [Let me] go, that I may accomplish all that is in thy heart.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

121. “What man is it, who hath brought thee forth to battle?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

122. “[…] Tiamat, who is a woman, is armed and attacketh thee.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

123. “[…] … rejoice and be glad;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

124. “The neck of Tiamat shalt thou swiftly trample under foot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

125. “[…] … rejoice and be glad;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

126. “[The neck] of Tiamat shalt thou swiftly trample under foot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

127. “O my [son], who knoweth all wisdom,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

128. “Pacify [Tiama]t with thy pure incantation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

129. “Speedily set out upon thy way,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

130. “For [thy blood ] shall not be poured out, thou shalt return again.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

131. The lord rejoiced at the word of his father,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

132. His heart exulted, and unto his father he spake:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

133. “O Lord of the gods, Destiny of the great gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

134. “If I, your avenger,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

135. “Conquer Tiamat and give you life,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

136. “Appoint an assembly, make my fate preeminent and proclaim it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

137. “In Upshukkinaku seat yourselves joyfully together,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

138. “With my word in place of you will I decree fate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

139. “May whatsoever I do remain unaltered,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

140. “May the word of my lips never be changed nor made of no avail.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Third Tablet<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

1. Anshar opened his mouth, and<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. [Unto Gaga], his [minister], spake the word:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. “[O Gaga, thou minis]ter that rejoicest my spirit,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. ”[Unto Lahmu and Lah]amu will I send thee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. “[…] thou canst attain,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. ”[…] thou shalt cause to be brought before thee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. [… let] the gods, all of them,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. “[Make ready for a feast], at a banquet let them sit,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. “[Let them eat bread], let them mix wine,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. ”[That for Marduk], their avenger, they may decree the fate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. “[Go,] Gaga, stand before them,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. ”[And all that] I, tell thee, repeat unto them, (and say):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. “[Anshar], your son, hath sent me,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. “[The purpose] of his heart he hath made known unto me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. “[He saith that Tia]mat our mother hath conceived a hatred for us,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. “[With all] her force she rageth, full of wrath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. “All the gods have turned to her,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. “With those, whom ye created, they go at her side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. ”They are banded together, and at the side of Tiamat they advance;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20 . “They are furious, they devise mischief without resting night and day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. ”They prepare for battle, fuming and raging;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22. “They have joined their forces and are making war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. “Ummu-Hubur, who formed all things,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. “Hath made in addition weapons invincible, she hath spawned monster-serpents,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. “Sharp of tooth and merciless of fang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

26. “With poison instead of blood she hath filled heir bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

27. “Fierce monster-vipers she hath clothed with terror,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

28. “With splendour she hath decked them, she hath made them of lofty stature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

29. “Whoever beholdeth them, terror overcometh him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

30. “Their bodies rear up and none can withstand their attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

31. “She hath set up vipers, and dragons, and the (monster) Lahamu,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

32. “And hurricanes, and raging hounds, and scorpion-men,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

33. “And mighty tempests, and fish-men, and rams;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

34. They bear merciless weapons, without fear of the fight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

35. “Her commands are mighty, none can resist them;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

36. “After this fashion, huge of stature, hath she made eleven (monsters).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

37. “Among the gods who are her sons, inasmuch as he hath given her [support],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38. “She hath exalted Kingu; in their midst she hath raised [him] to power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

39. ”To march before the forces, [to lead the host],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

40. “[To] give the battle-signal, to advance [to the attack],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

41. “[To direct] the battle, to control the [fight],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

42. “Unto him [hath she entrusted; in costly raiment] she hath made him sit, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

43. “‘[I have] uttered thy spell, in the assembly of the gods [I have raised thee to power],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

44. “‘[The] dominion over all the gods [have I entrusted unto thee].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

45. “‘[Be] thou exalted, [thou] my chosen spouse,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

46. “‘ May they magnify thy name over all of [them … the Anunnaki].’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

47. “She hath given him the Tablets of Destiny, on his breast she laid them, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

48. “‘Thy command shall not be without avail, and the word of [thy] mouth shall be established.’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

49. “Now Kingu, (thus) exalted, having received [the power of Anu],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

50. “Decreed the fate for the gods, her sons, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

51. “‘Let the opening of your mouth quench the Fire-god;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

52. “‘Whoso is exalted in the battle, let him display (his) might! ‘<\/p>\n\n\n\n

53. ”I sent Anu, but he could not withstand her;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

54. “Nudimmud was afraid and turned back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

55. “But Marduk hath set out, the director of the gods, your son;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

56. ”To set out against Tiamat his heart hath prompted (him).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

57. “He opened his mouth and spake unto me, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

58. “‘If I, your avenger,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

59. “‘Conquer Tiamat and give you life,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

60. “‘Appoint an assembly, make my fate preeminent and proclaim it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

61. “‘In Upshukkinaku seat yourselves joyfully together;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

62. “‘With my word in place of you will I decree fate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

63. “‘May whatsoever I do remain unaltered,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

64. “‘May the word of my lips never be changed nor made of no avail.’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

65. “Hasten, therefore, and swiftly decree for him the fate which you bestow,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

66. “That he may go and fight your strong enemy!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

67. Gaga went, he took his way and<\/p>\n\n\n\n

68. Humbly before Lahmu and Lahamu, the gods, his fathers,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

69. He made obeisance, and he kissed the ground at their feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

70. He humbled himself; then he stood up and spake unto them, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

71. “Anshar, your son, hath sent me,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

72. ”The purpose of his heart he hath made known unto me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

73. “He saith that Tiamat our mother hath conceived a hatred for us,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

74. “With all her force she rageth, full of wrath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

75. “All the gods have turned to her,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

76. “With those, whom ye created, they go at her side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

77. “They are banded together and at the side of Tiamat they advance;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

78. ”They are furious, they devise mischief without resting night and day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

79. “They prepare for battle, fuming and raging;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

80. ”They have joined their forces and are making war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

81. ”Ummu-Hubur, who formed all things,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

82. “Hath made in addition weapons invincible, she hath spawned monster-serpents,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

83. “Sharp of tooth and merciless of fang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

84. “With poison instead of blood she hath filled their bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

85. ”Fierce monster-vipers she hath clothed with terror,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

86. “With splendour she hath decked them, she hath made them of lofty stature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

87. ”Whoever beholdeth them, terror overcometh him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

88. “Their bodies rear up and none can withstand their attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

89. ”She hath set up vipers, and dragons, and the (monster) Lahamu,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

90. “And hurricanes, and raging hounds, and scorpion-men,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

91. ”And mighty tempests, and fish-men, and [rams];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

92. “They bear merciless weapons, without fear of the fight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

93. “Her commands are mighty, none can resist them;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

94. ”After this fashion, huge of stature, hath she made eleven (monsters).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

95. ”Among the gods who are her sons, inasmuch as he hath given her support,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

96. “She hath exalted Kingu; in their midst she hath raised him to power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

97. “To march before the forces, to lead the host,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

98. ”To give the battle-signal, to advance to the attack,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

99. “To direct the battle, to control the fight,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

100. ”Unto him hath she entrusted; in costly raiment she hath made him sit, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

101. “‘I have uttered thy spell, in the assembly of the gods I have raised thee to power,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

102. “‘The dominion over all the gods have I entrusted unto thee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

103. “‘Be thou exalted, thou my chosen spouse,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

104. “‘May they magnify thy name over all of them … the Anunna[ki].’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

105. “She hath given him the Tablets of Destiny, on [his] breast [she laid them], (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

106. “‘Thy command shall not be without avail, [and the word of thy mouth shall be established].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

107. “Now Kingu, (thus) exalted, [having received the power of Anu],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

108. “[Decreed the fate] for the gods, her sons, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

109. “‘Let the opening of your mouth [quench] the Fire-god;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

110. “‘Whoso is exalted in the battle, [let him display] (his) might!’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

111. “I sent Anu, but he could not [withstand her];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

112. “Nudimmud was afraid and [turned back].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

113. “But Marduk hath set out, the director of the[gods, your son];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

114. “T o set out against Tiamat [his heart hath prompted (him)].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

115. “He opened his mouth [and spake unto me], (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

116. “‘If I, [your avenger],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

117. “‘Conquer Tiamat and [give you life],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

118. “‘Appoint an assembly, [make my fate preeminent and proclaim it].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

119. “‘In Upshukkinaku [seat yourselves joyfully together];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

120. “‘With my word in place of [you will I decree fate].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

121. “‘May whatsoever [I] do remain unaltered,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

122. “‘May the word of [my lips] never be changed nor made of no avail.’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

123. ”Hasten, therefore, and swiftly [decree for him] the fate which you bestow,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

124. “That he may go and fight your strong enemy!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

125. Lahmu and Lahamu heard and cried aloud,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

126. All of the Igigi wailed bitterly, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

127. ”What has been altered so that they should … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

128. ”We do not understand the d[eed] of Tiamat!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

129. Then did they collect and go,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

130. The great gods, all of them, who decree [fate].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

131. They entered in before Anshar, they filled […];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

132. They kissed one another, in the assembly […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

133. They made ready for the feast, at the banquet [they sat];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

134. They ate bread, they mixed [sesame-wine].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

135. The sweet drink, the mead, confused their […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

136. They were drunk with drinking, their bodies were filled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

137. They were wholly at ease, their spirit was exalted;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

138. Then for Marduk, their avenger, did they decree the fate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fourth Tablet<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

1. They prepared for him a lordly chamber,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2 . Before his fathers as prince he took his place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. “Thou art chiefest among the great gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. “Thy fate is unequalled, thy word is Anu!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. “O Marduk, thou art chiefest among the great gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. “Thy fate is unequalled, thy word is Anu!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. “Henceforth not without avail shall be thy command,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. “In thy power shall it be to exalt and to abase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. “Established shall be the word of thy mouth, irresistible shall be thy command;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. “None among the gods shall transgress thy boundary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. “Abundance, the desire of the shrines of the gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. “Shall be established in thy sanctuary, even though they lack (offerings).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. “O Marduk, thou art our avenger!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. “We give thee sovereignty over the whole world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. “Sit thou down in night, be exalted in thy command.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. “Thy weapon shall never lose its power, it shall crush thy foe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. “O lord, spare the life of him that putteth his trust in thee,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. “But as for the god who began the rebellion, pour out his life.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. Then set they in their midst a garment,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. And unto Marduk their first-born they spake:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. “May thy fate, O lord, be supreme among the gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22. “To destroy and to create; speak thou the word, and (thy command) shall be fulfilled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. “Command now and let the garment vanish;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. “And speak the word again and let the garment reappear!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. Then he spake with his mouth, and the garment vanished;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

26. Again he commanded it, and the garment reappeared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

27. When the gods, his fathers, beheld (the fulfilment of) his word,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

28. They rejoiced, and they did homage (unto him, saying), ” Marduk is king! “<\/p>\n\n\n\n

29. They bestowed upon him the sceptre, and the throne, and the ring,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

30. They give him an invincible weapon, which overwhelmeth the foe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

31. “Go, and cut off the life of Tiamat,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

32. “And let the wind carry her blood into secret places.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

33. After the gods his fathers had decreed for the lord his fate,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

34. They caused him to set out on a path of prosperity and success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

35 . He made ready the bow, he chose his weapon,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

36. He slung a spear upon him and fastened it . . .<\/p>\n\n\n\n

37. He raised the club, in his right hand he grasped (it),<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38. The bow and the quiver he hung at his side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

39. He set the lightning in front of him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

40. With burning flame he filled his body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

41. He made a net to enclose the inward parts of Tiamat,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

42. The four winds he stationed so that nothing of her might escape;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

43. The South wind and the North wind and the East wind and the West wind<\/p>\n\n\n\n

44. He brought near to the net, the gift of his father Anu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

45. He created the evil wind, and the tempest, and the hurricane,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

46. And the fourfold wind, and the sevenfold wind, and the whirlwind, and the wind which had no equal;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

47. He sent forth the winds which he had created, the seven of them;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

48. T o disturb the inward parts of Tiamat, they followed after him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

49. Then the lord raised the thunderbolt, his mighty weapon,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

50. He mounted the chariot, the storm unequalled for terror,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

51. He harnessed and yoked unto it four horses,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

52. Destructive, ferocious, overwhelming, and swift of pace;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

53. […] were their teeth, they were flecked with foam;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

54. They were skilled in […], they had been trained to trample underfoot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

55. […], mighty in battle,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

56. Left and [right …<\/p>\n\n\n\n

57. His garment was […], he was clothed with terror,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

58. With overpowering brightness his head was crowned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

59. Then he set out, he took his way,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

60. And towards the [rag]ing Tiamat he set his face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

61. On his lips he held […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

62. … […] he grasped in his hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

63. Then they beheld him, the gods beheld him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

64. The gods his fathers beheld him, the gods beheld him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

65. And the lord drew nigh, he gazed upon the inward parts of Tiamat,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

66. He perceived the muttering of Kingu, her spouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

67. As (Marduk) gazed, (Kingu) was troubled in his gait,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

68. His will was destroyed and his motions ceased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

69. And the gods, his helpers, who marched by his side,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

70. Beheld their leader’s […], and their sight was troubled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

71. But Tiamat […], she turned not her neck,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

72. With lips that failed not she uttered rebellious words:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

73. “[…] thy coming as lord of the gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

74. “From their places have they gathered, in thy place are they!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

75. Then the lord [raised] the thunderbolt, his mighty weapon,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

76. [And against] Tiamat, who was raging, thus he sent (the word):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

77. “[Thou] art become great, thou hast exalted thyself on high,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

78. “And thy [heart hath prompted] thee to call to battle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

79. “[…] their fathers […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

80. “[…] their […] thou hatest […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

81. “[Thou hast exalted King]u to be [thy] spouse,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

82. “[Thou hast . . . ] him, that, even as Anu, he should issue decrees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

83. “[…] thou hast followed after evil,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

84. “And [against] the .gods my fathers thou hast contrived thy wicked plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

85. “Let then thy host be equipped, let thy weapons be girded on!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

86. “Stand! I and thou, let us join battle!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

87. When Tiamat heard these words,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

88. She was like one possessed, she lost her reason.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

89. Tiamat uttered wild, piercing cries,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

90. She trembled and shook to her very foundations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

91. She recited an incantation, she pronounced her spell,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

92. And the gods of the battle cried out for their weapons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

93. Then advanced Tiamat and Marduk, the counsellor of the gods;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

94. To the fight they came on, to the battle they drew nigh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

95. The lord spread out his net and caught her,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

96. And the evil wind that was behind (him) he let loose in her face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

97. As Tiamat opened her mouth to its full extent,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

98. He drove in the evil wind, while as yet she had not shut her lips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

99. The terrible winds filled her belly,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

100. And her courage was taken from her, and her mouth she opened wide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

101. He seized the spear and burst her belly,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

102. He severed her inward parts, he pierced (her) heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

103. He overcame her and cut off her life;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

104. He cast down her body and stood upon it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

105. When he had slain Tiamat, the leader,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

106. Her might was broken, her host was scattered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

107. And the gods her helpers, who marched by her side,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

108. Trembled, and were afraid, and turned back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

109. They took to flight to save their lives;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

110. But they were surrounded, so that they could not escape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

111. He took them captive, he broke their weapons;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

112. In the net they were caught and in the snare they sat down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

113. The […] … of the world they filled with cries of grief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

114. They received punishment from him, they were held in bondage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

115. And on the eleven creatures which she had filled with the power of striking terror,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

116. Upon the troop of devils, who marched at her […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

117. He brought affliction, their strength [he …];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

118. Them and their opposition he trampled under his feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

119. Moreover, Kingu, who had been exalted over them,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

120. He conquered, and with the god Dug-ga he counted him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

121. He took from him the Tablets of Destiny that were not rightly his,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

122. He sealed them with a seal and in his own breast he laid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

123. Now after the hero Marduk had conquered and cast down his enemies,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

124. And had made the arrogant foe even like …,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

125. And had fully established Anshar’s triumph over the enemy,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

126. And had attained the purpose of Nudimmud,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

127. Over the captive gods he strengthened his durance,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

128. And unto Tiamat, whom he had conquered, he returned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

129. And the lord stood upon Tiamat’s hinder parts,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

130. And with his merciless club he smashed her skull.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

131. He cut through the channels of her blood,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

132. And he made the North wind bear it away into secret places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

133. His fathers beheld, and they rejoiced and were glad;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

134. Presents and gifts they brought unto him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

135. Then the lord rested, gazing upon her dead body,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

136. While he divided the flesh of the …, and devised a cunning plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

137. He split her up like a flat fish into two halves;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

138. One half of her he stablished as a covering for heaven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

139. He fixed a bolt, he stationed a watchman,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

140. And bade them not to let her waters come forth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

141. He passed through the heavens, he surveyed the regions (thereof),<\/p>\n\n\n\n

142. And over against the Deep he set the dwelling of Nudimmud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

143. And the lord measured the structure of the Deep,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

144. And he founded E-shara, a mansion like unto it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

145. The mansion E-shara which he created as heaven,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

146. He caused Anu, B\u00eal, and Ea in their districts to inhabit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fifth Tablet<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

1. He made the stations for the great gods;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. The stars, their images, as the stars of the Zodiac, he fixed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. He ordained the year and into sections he divided it;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. For the twelve months he fixed three stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. After he had […] the days of the year […] images,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/a>6. He founded the station of Nibir1<\/a>to determine their bounds;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. That none might err or go astray,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. He set the station of B\u00eal and Ea along with him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. He opened great gates on both sides,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. He made strong the bolt on the left and on the right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. In the midst thereof he fixed the zenith;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. The Moon-god he caused to shine forth, the night he entrusted to him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. He appointed him, a being of the night, to determine the days;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Every month without ceasing with the crown he covered him, (saying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/a><\/a>p. 80 p. 81<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. “At the beginning of the month, when thou shinest upon the land,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. “Thou commandest the horns to determine six days,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. “And on the seventh day to [divide] the crown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. “On the fourteenth day thou shalt stand opposite, the half […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. “When the Sun-god on the foundation of heaven […] thee,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. “The […] thou shalt cause to …, and thou shalt make his […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. “[…] … unto the path of the Sun-god shalt thou cause to draw nigh,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22. “[And on the … day] thou shalt stand opposite, and the Sun-god shall … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. “[…] to traverse her way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. “[…] thou shalt cause to draw nigh, and thou shalt judge the right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. “[…] to destroy<\/p>\n\n\n\n

26. “[…] me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

66. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

67. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

68. From […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

69. In E-sagil […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

70. To establish […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

71. The station of […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

72. The great gods […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

73. The gods […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

74. He took and […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

75. The gods [his fathers] beheld the net which he had made,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

76. They beheld the bow and how [its work] was accomplished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

77. They praised the work which he had done […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

78. Then Anu raised [the …] in the assembly of the gods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

79. He kissed the bow, (saying), “It is […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

80. And thus he named the names of the bow, (saying),<\/p>\n\n\n\n

81. “‘Long-wood’ shall be one name, and the second name<\/p>\n\n\n

[shall be …]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

82. “And its third name shall be the Bow-star, in heaven [shall it …]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

83. Then he fixed a station for it […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

84. Now after the fate of […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

85. [He set] a throne […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

86. […] in heaven […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

87. […] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

128. “[…] him […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

129. “[…] them […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

130. “[…] him […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

131. “[…] them […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

132. “[…] their […] may […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

133. […] the gods spake,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

134. […] the heavens […]:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

135. “[… your] son […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

136. “[…] our […] hath he […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

137. “[…] he hath caused to live […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

138. “[…] splendour […]”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

139. “[…] not […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

140. “[…] we […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Sixth Tablet<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

1. When Marduk heard the word of the gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. His heart prompted him and he devised [a cunning plan].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. He opened his mouth and unto Ea [he spake],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. [That which] he had conceived in his heart he imparted [unto him]:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. “My blood will I take and bone will I [fashion],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. “I will make man, that man may … […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. “I will create man who shall inhabit [the earth],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. “That the service of the gods may be established, and that [their] shrines [may be built].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. “But I will alter the ways of the gods, and I will change [their paths];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. “Together shall they be oppressed, and unto evil shall [they …].”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. And Ea answered him and spake the word:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. “[…] the […] of the gods I have [changed]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. […] … and one … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. […shall be de]stroyed and men will I […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. […] and the gods […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. […] … and they […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. […] … and the gods […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. […] …. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. […] the gods […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. […] the Anunnaki […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. […] … [\u2026]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

138. […] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

139. […] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

140. When […] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

141. They rejoiced […] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

142. In Upshukkinnaku they set [their dwelling].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

143. Of the heroic son, their avenger, [they cried]:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

144. “We, whom he succoured, … […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

145. They seated themselves and in the assembly they named [him …],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

146. They all [cried aloud, they exalted [him …].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Seventh Tablet<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

1. O Asari, “Bestower of planting,” “[Founder of sowing],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. “Creator of grain and plants,” “who caused [the green herb to spring up]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. O Asaru-alim, “who is revered in the house of counsel,” “[who aboundeth in counsel],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. The gods paid homage, fear [took hold upon them]!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. O Asaru-alim-nuna, “the mighty one,” “the Light of [the father who begat him],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Who directeth the decrees of Anu, Bel, [and Ea]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. He was their patron, he ordained [their . . . . ];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. He, whose provision is abundance, goeth forth […]!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Tutu [is] “He who created them anew;”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Should their wants be pure, then are they [satisfied];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Should he make an incantation, then are the gods [appeased];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12 . Should they attack him in anger, he withstandeth [their onslaught]!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Let him therefore be exalted, and in the assembly of the gods [let him …];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. None among the gods can [rival him]!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Tutu is Zi-ukkina, “the Life of the host [of the gods],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. Who established for the gods the bright heavens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. He set them on their way, and ordained [their path ]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. Never shall his […] deeds be forgotten among men.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. Tutu as Zi-azag thirdly they named, “the Bringer of Purification,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. “The God of the Favouring Breeze,” “the Lord of Hearing and Mercy,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. “The Creator of Fulness and Abundance,” “the Founder of Plenteousness,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22. “Who increaseth all that is small.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. “In sore distress we felt his favouring breeze,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. Let them say, let them pay reverence, let them bow in humility before him!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. Tutu as Aga-azag may mankind fourthly magnify!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

26. “The Lord of the Pure Incantation,” “the Quickener of the Dead,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

27. “Who had mercy upon the captive gods,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

28. “Who removed the yoke from upon the gods his enemies,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

29. “For their forgiveness did he create mankind,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

30. “The Merciful One, with whom it is to bestow life!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

31. May his deeds endure, may they never be forgotten<\/p>\n\n\n\n

32. In the mouth of mankind whom his hands have made!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

33. Tutu as Mu-azag, fifthly, his “Pure Incantation” may their mouth proclaim,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

34. “Who through his Pure Incantation hath destroyed all the evil ones!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

35. Shag-zu, “who knoweth the heart of the gods,” “who seeth through the innermost part!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

36. “The evil-doer he hath not caused to go forth with him!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

37. “Founder of the assembly of the gods,” “[who …] their heart! “<\/p>\n\n\n\n

38. “Subduer of the disobedient,” “[…]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

39. “Who rebellion and […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

41. Tutu as Zi-si, “the […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

42. “Who put an end to anger,” “[who …]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

43. Tutu as Suh-kur, thirdly, “the [Destroyer of the foe],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

44. “Who put their plans to confusion,” “[…],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

45. “Who destroyed all the wicked,” “[…],”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

46. […] let them […]!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

47. […] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[The following lines are taken from the fragment K. 12,830, but their position in the text is uncertain.]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[He named the four quarters (of the world)], mankind [he created],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[And upon] him understanding […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] Tiamat […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] … […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] distant […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] may […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[The following lines are taken from the fragment K. 13,761.]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. […]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“The mighty one […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

… Agi[l …],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“The Creator of [the earth …]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Zulummu … […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“The Giver of counsel and of whatsoever […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mummu, “the Creator [of …]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mulil, the heavens […], “Who for … […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gishkul, let […],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

(10) “Who brought the gods to naught[…]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lugal-ab-[…],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Who in [ ………… ]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pap-[…],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Who in […]!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[\u2026]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] …<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[… the Chief of] all lords,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[… supreme] is his might!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[Lugal-durmah, “the King] of the band of the gods,” “the Lord of rulers,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Who is exalted in a royal habitation,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“[Who] among the gods is gloriously supreme!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[Adu-nuna], “the Counsellor of Ea,” who created the gods his fathers,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unto the path of whose majesty<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[No] god can ever attain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[… in] Dul-azag he made it known,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] pure is his dwelling!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[… the …] of those without understanding is Lugal-dul-azaga!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] supreme is his might!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] their […] in the midst of Tiamat,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

[…] … of the battle!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

105. […] … […] him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

106. […] … the star, which [shineth in the heavens].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

107. May he hold the Beginning and the Future may they pay homage unto him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

108. Saying, “He who forced his way through the midst of Tiamat [without resting],<\/p>\n\n\n\n

109. “Let his name be Nibiru, ‘the Seizer of the Midst’!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

110. “For the stars of heaven he upheld the paths,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

111. “He shepherded all the gods like sheep!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

112. “He conquered Tiamat, he troubled and ended her life,”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

113. In the future of mankind, when the days grow old,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

114. May this be heard without ceasing, may it hold sway for ever!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

115. Since he created the realm (of heaven) and fashioned the firm earth,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

116. “The Lord of the World,” the father B\u00eal hath called his name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

117. (This) title, which all the Spirits of Heaven proclaimed,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

118. Did Ea hear, and his spirit was rejoiced, (and he said):<\/p>\n\n\n\n

119. “He whose name his fathers have made glorious,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

120. “Shall be even as I, his name shall be Ea!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

121. “The binding of all my decrees shall he control,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

122. “All my commands shall he make known! “<\/p>\n\n\n\n

123. By the name of “Fifty” did the great gods<\/p>\n\n\n\n

124. Proclaim his fifty names, they made his path pre-eminent.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

125. Let them be held in remembrance, and let the first man proclaim them;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

126. Let the wise and the understanding consider them together!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

127. Let the father repeat them and teach them to his son;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

128. Let them be in the ears of the pastor and the shepherd!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

129. Let a man rejoice in Marduk, the Lord of the gods,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

130. That he may cause his land to be fruitful, and that he himself may have prosperity!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

131. His word standeth fast, his command is unaltered;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

132. The utterance of his mouth hath no god ever annulled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

133. He gazed in his anger, he turned not his neck;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

134. When he is wroth, no god can withstand his indignation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

135. Wide is his heart, broad is his compassion;<\/p>\n\n\n\n

136. The sinner and evil-doer in his presence […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

137. They received instruction, they spake before him,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

138. […] unto […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

139. […] of Marduk may the gods […].<\/p>\n\n\n\n

140. [May] they [… his ] name […]!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

141. […] they took and […];<\/p>\n\n\n\n

142. […]!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Leonard William King A Babylonian creation epic. The First Tablet 1. When in the height heaven was not named, 2. And the earth beneath did not yet bear a name, 3. And the primeval Aps\u00fb, who begat them, 4. And chaos, Tiamat, the mother of them both,\u2014 5. Their waters were mingled together, 6. And … <\/p>\n

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