Anshar

Definition

Anshar is a primordial deity in Babylonian mythology, recognized as a significant figure in the Enuma Elish creation epic. He is often depicted as the father of the god Anu and a key player in the pantheon, symbolizing the sky and playing a vital role in the cosmic order. Anshar's importance lies in his connection to other gods and his influence on the creation narrative that defines Babylonian cosmology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anshar is often associated with Apsu, the freshwater god, symbolizing his connection to the cosmic waters that exist before creation.
2. In the Enuma Elish, Anshar calls upon Marduk to confront Tiamat, showcasing his role as a leader among the gods.
3. Anshar's name means 'the upper' or 'the one who is above,' reinforcing his status within the pantheon.
4. He embodies both strength and authority, serving as a protector of divine order against chaos.
5. Anshar's lineage includes important deities, making him a key ancestral figure in Babylonian religion.

Review Questions

• How does Anshar's role in the Enuma Elish reflect the structure and hierarchy of Babylonian mythology?
  • Anshar's position in the Enuma Elish highlights the hierarchical nature of Babylonian mythology. As a primordial deity and father of Anu, he holds significant authority and symbolizes the sky. His leadership in calling upon Marduk to battle Tiamat illustrates how divine order is maintained through collaboration among gods, reflecting a structured pantheon where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
• Discuss how Anshar's characteristics contribute to understanding Babylonian views on cosmology and order.
  • Anshar represents not just an individual deity but also embodies key concepts in Babylonian cosmology, such as order, authority, and creation. His characterization as a leader emphasizes the importance of maintaining cosmic harmony. In the Enuma Elish, Anshar’s actions directly influence the events leading to creation, which illustrates how ancient Babylonians viewed their gods as active participants in establishing and preserving order against chaos.
• Evaluate Anshar's significance in relation to other deities in Babylonian mythology and how this reflects broader themes in ancient religious thought.
  • Anshar's significance is amplified when evaluated alongside deities like Marduk and Tiamat. His role as a progenitor of major gods connects him to central themes of power dynamics and conflict within ancient religious thought. The struggle between order (represented by Anshar and Marduk) and chaos (embodied by Tiamat) reveals how early civilizations grappled with existential questions about creation, authority, and balance in their understanding of the universe. This interconnectedness among deities demonstrates a complex belief system where each god's role contributes to overarching narratives about existence.

Related terms

Enuma Elish:

The Babylonian creation myth that describes the origins of the world, the emergence of gods, and the rise of Marduk as the chief deity.

Marduk:

The chief god of Babylon, who plays a central role in the Enuma Elish and is celebrated for defeating chaos and establishing order.

Tiamat: A primordial goddess representing chaos and saltwater, who battles against the younger gods, including Marduk, in the Enuma Elish.