Location

Abzu

The sweet deep beneath all things, primordial ocean, source of springs.From this darkness, all fresh water rises.

Domains

Waters

Description

The cosmic freshwater ocean believed to exist beneath the earth. Both a physical concept and the domain of Enki.

Significance

The Abzu was the source of all fresh water: rivers, springs, and marshes. Enki built his temple upon it, and it represents the hidden wellspring of wisdom and creation.

Symbols & Attributes

deep-watersfish

Connections

Associated with Enki Lord of the Abzu, built his temple upon it
Associated with Ereshkigal The underworld was conceived as lying beneath and connected to the Abzu

Sources & References

  • Religion in Ancient Mesopotamia Bottéro, Jean (2001)
  • The Treasures of Darkness Jacobsen, Thorkild (1976)