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Anzû/Anzu (also known as dZû/Zû and Imdugud in some texts) is a prominent figure in Mesopotamian mythology, appearing in Sumerian, Akkadian, and Babylonian traditions. Anzu is often depicted as a lion-headed eagle or a giant bird with powerful and fearsome attributes.
Anzu is often portrayed with a combination of lion and bird features, symbolizing both strength and sovereignty. This hybrid form emphasizes his role as a formidable antagonist in Mesopotamian mythology.
Biography[]
Anzu is most notably featured in the myth of the "Anzu Bird" or the "Theft of the Tablets of Destiny." The Sumerian epic featuring Lugalbanda and Enmerkar, which includes an episode with Anzu, is sometimes referred to as Lugalbanda and the Anzu Bird or Lugalbanda II. Another Sumerian myth is The Journey of Ninurta to Eridu. Anzu's most famous role in Mesopotamian mythology is found in the Babylonian myth of Anzu and the Tablets of Destiny.
Lugalbanda and the Anzu Bird[]
Lugalbanda was a Sumerian king of Uruk who eventually became deified. Although he was likely a historical figure, the adventures described in the stories are mythical. The giant demons depicted in these tales do not inhabit the remote mountains of Iraq and Iran where the myth is set.
In the story, Lugalbanda becomes hopelessly lost in the Zabu Mountains and decides to visit Anzu and his family to offer praise and seek assistance. He climbs to the peak where Anzu’s chick is nesting and lavishes the young creature with luxurious gifts. Meanwhile, Anzu is out hunting wild bulls.
Upon returning, Anzu is so grateful for the offerings that he grants Lugalbanda significant magical powers, such as the ability to travel swiftly, but with the condition that a cult be established in his honor in Uruk.
The Journey of Ninurta to Eridu[]
In this Sumerian myth, Anzu's role is less central compared to the previous story, though it serves a similar function. Here, the young Anzu guides Ninurta, the god of agriculture, healing, and war, to Apsu and reveals Ninurta’s destiny. In gratitude, Ninurta promises to establish a cult dedicated to Anzu and to create a beautiful statue in its likeness.
The Myth of Anzu and the Tablet of Destiny[]
There are numerous versions of this Babylonian myth, categorized chronologically and linguistically into Old, Middle, and Late Babylonian texts, spanning roughly 1,000 years. Despite variations, the core plot remains consistent across versions. The narrative conventions and motifs of this myth influenced later Babylonian mythology, such as Enuma Eliš, as noted by Assyriologist Selena Wisnom in a recent article.
In the Standard Babylonian Version, the myth begins with Anzu watching the great god Ellil/Enlil while he bathes. While Enlil is enjoying the water, Anzu seizes the powerful Tablet of Destiny, which holds Enlil’s power.
The distraught gods quickly discuss who will confront Anzu, eventually choosing Ninurta (or Ningirsu in the Old Babylonian version), a god more focused on warfare in the Babylonian pantheon.
Ninurta assembles an army to battle Anzu and equips himself with magical weapons. Initially, none of these weapons are effective as Anzu uses the Tablet of Destiny to neutralize each one. However, Ninurta manages to exhaust Anzu enough to sever his wings and deliver a fatal blow, restoring cosmic order.
Fragments of this myth, which mostly align with the Standard/Late Babylonian version, have been found not only at Babylonian sites but also in former Assyrian cities such as Nineveh (modern Iraq) and Sultantepe in southeastern Turkey.
Cultural Influences[]
Some Sumerians might have viewed Anzu as an evil demon rather than just a natural phenomenon. On the other hand, some Babylonians might have seen the Tablet of Destiny myth as portraying Anzu negatively, perhaps depicting him as a fearsome representation of wind and thunderstorms. Anzu’s nature is more nuanced than the physical records suggest, and this complexity is mirrored in modern digital media.
For instance, players of World of Warcraft may recognize Anzu’s name through an artifact found in the Spires of Arak, known as the Statue of Anzu. In the game, Anzu’s role is purely decorative—a menacing eagle statue without much character. Nevertheless, Anzu’s influence continues to resonate in our collective imagination.
Gallery[]
