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Inscribed Part of a Mesopotamian Hound
The hindquarters of a terracotta statue of a sitting dog. The inscription mentions that it was dedicated to the goddess of healing, Gula, by an official, Ninurta-Resushu, for his king Nazi-Maruttash. The goddess Gula was usually shown with/represented by her dog. Probably from Sippar, Mesopotamia, modern-day Iraq, c. 1300 BCE.
The British Museum, London
Questions & Answers
Was Mesopotamian religion polytheistic?
- Yes. Mesopotamian religion was polytheistic. The people worshipped approximately 3,600 different deities.
When was Mesopotamian religion first established?
- Mesopotamian religion was already established by the Uruk Period c. 4100 BCE.
Who was the most popular Mesopotamian god or goddess?
- The popularity of gods and goddesses changed with different eras but Inanna/Ishtar remained among the most popular in every period.
Why were amulets and charms used by religious people in ancient Mesopotamia?
- Amulets and charms were used by Mesopotamians to attract positive spirits from the gods and defend against dark energies from evil spirits, demons, or ghosts.
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External Links
Mesopotamian Deities | Essay | The Metropolitan Museum of Art | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History
metmuseum.org
Mesopotamian Religion
washington.edu
Ancient Mesopotamian Gods & Goddesses
museum.upenn.edu
