Place of Origin: Eridu (Mesopotamia)
Origin Date: ~3000 BCE
Domain: Water, wisdom, fertility
Symbols: Flowing water, fish, turtle.
Attributes: Wisdom, creation.
Religion: Mesopotamian Mythology
Description
Enki was a benevolent deity known for his wisdom and role in creating and protecting humanity. He was associated with fresh water, fertility, and magic.
Relations: Son of Anu, father of Marduk
Epithets: “Lord of Sweet Waters,” “Wise One.”
Equivalents: Greek: Poseidon (water), Norse: Mimir (wisdom).
Iconography: Often shown with streams of water and fish flowing from his shoulders.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Temples like the E-abzu in Eridu were devoted to Enki.
Narratives
Enki and Ninhursag (c. 2100 BCE)
Summary: This Sumerian myth recounts Enki's interactions with Ninhursag, the earth goddess. Enki consumes plants that Ninhursag creates, leading to his illness. Ninhursag heals him by giving birth to deities representing the parts of his body affected, emphasizing themes of fertility and creation.
Enki and the World Order (c. 2100 BCE)
Summary: Enki organizes the world, assigning roles to gods and establishing boundaries for nations. This myth highlights his wisdom and role as a creator and organizer of the cosmos.
Atrahasis (c. 1800 BCE)
Summary: In this flood myth, Enki saves humanity from destruction. When Enlil decides to send a flood to punish humans for their noise, Enki warns Atrahasis, instructing him to build a boat to preserve life.
Enuma Elish (c. 1100 BCE)
Summary: Enki plays a supporting role in this Babylonian creation epic. He advises Marduk, his son, and helps establish cosmic order by defeating Tiamat, the chaos dragon.
Myth of Adapa (c. 1800 BCE)
Summary: Enki grants Adapa wisdom but denies him immortality. Adapa is summoned to the heavens after breaking the South Wind’s wing, and Enki advises him on how to behave before Anu, the sky god.
The Creation of Humanity (c. 2000 BCE)
Summary: Enki creates humans to serve the gods, using clay and the blood of a slain deity. This myth underscores his role as a creator and protector of humanity.
Sacred Texts: "Enki and the World Order," c. 2100 BCE.