Creature

Lamashtu

sumerian Dimme
She who stalks the birthing room, daughter of Anu turned to terror.Neither prayer nor offering can stop her. Only Pazuzu holds her back.

Role

Demoness who threatened pregnant women and newborns. Uniquely, she acted on her own malice rather than being sent by the gods.

Significance

Lamashtu was one of the most feared figures in Mesopotamian demonology. Elaborate rituals and amulets featuring Pazuzu were the primary defense against her.
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Sources & References

  • Gods, Demons and Symbols of Ancient Mesopotamia Black, Jeremy & Green, Anthony (1992)
  • Religion in Ancient Mesopotamia Bottéro, Jean (2001)