Lamassu were protectors of not only kings and palaces, but of every single human being. Mythical Guardians that Influenced Christianity Akkadians associated Lamassu with the god Papsukkal (the messenger god), and the god Isum (a fire-god, herald of the Babylonian gods) with Shedu. The cults of Lamassu and Shedu were very common in households from the Sumerian to Babylonian period, and they became associated with many royal protectors in different cults. In the Epic of Gilgamesh, they were considered as protective because they encompass all life within them. No matter if they are in a female or male form, Lamassu always represent the parent-stars, constellations, or the zodiac. In the Epic of Gilgamesh and Enuma Elis, both Lamassu and Aspasu (Inara) are symbols of the starry heavens, constellations, and the zodiac. University of Chicago Oriental Institute. Human-headed winged bull, otherwise known as a Shedu, from Khorsabad. She corresponds with the Greek goddess Artemis. Lamassu, as a celestial being, is also identified with Inara, the Hittite-Hurrian goddess of wild animals of the steppe and the daughter of the Storm-god Teshub. The ancient origins of the legendary griffin.Sometimes a Lamassu is portrayed as a female deity, but usually it is presented with a more masculine head. Other names for Lamassu are Lumasi, Alad, and Shedu. The first recorded Lamassu comes from circa 3,000 BC. Lamassu frequently appear in Mesopotamian art and mythology. Lamassu in the Akkadian language means “protective spirits.” Celestial Beings The Mesopotamians believed that Lamassu frightened away the forces of chaos and brought peace to their homes. Additionally, they were the guardians who inspired armies to protect their cities. At the same time, another winged creature was made to keep watch at the throne room entrance. Other statues of the mythical beasts belong to cities like ancient Dur Sharrukin (current Khorsabad, Iraq).Įvery important city wanted to have Lamassu protect the gateway to their citadel. The winged beasts from Nimrud in Iraq (the ancient city of Kalhu) also became very famous when Lamassu there were damaged in 2015. The most famous colossal statues of Lamassu have been excavated at the sites of the Assyrian capitals established by King Assurnasirpal II (reigned 883 – 859 BC) and King Sargon II (reigned 721 – 705 BC). They were believed to be very powerful creatures, and served both as a clear reminder of the king’s ultimate authority and as symbols of protection for all people. Lamassu are human-headed, eagle-winged, bulls or lions that once protected cities in Mesopotamia.
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