Place of Origin: Sumer (Mesopotamia)
Origin Date: ~3000 BCE
Domain: Sunlight, justice, morality.
Symbols: Sun disk, scales of justice.
Attributes: Light, fairness.
Religion: Mesopotamian Mythology
Description
Utu embodied light, truth, and justice, overseeing the morality and ethics of humanity. He guided travelers and illuminated the path of righteousness.
Relations: Brother of Inanna, son of Nanna.
Epithets: “Light of Truth,” “Judge of the Heavens.”
Equivalents: Greek: Helios, Roman: Sol.
Iconography: Depicted with rays of light and justice scales.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Worshiped in Sippar and Larsa through rituals welcoming the sunrise.
Narratives
The Code of Ur-Nammu (c. 2100 BCE)
Summary: Utu plays a central role in the prologue of the Sumerian Code of Ur-Nammu, where he is invoked as the divine source of justice. The laws are established under his authority, linking cosmic order with societal fairness.
The Epic of Gilgamesh (c. 2100 BCE)
Summary: Utu aids Gilgamesh and Enkidu during their quest to defeat Humbaba, the guardian of the Cedar Forest. He provides guidance and protection, symbolizing his role as a god of justice and light.
The Descent of Inanna (c. 2100 BCE)
Summary: Utu assists his sister, Inanna, during her journey to the underworld, offering light and guidance. His involvement underscores his protective and illuminating qualities.
The Code of Hammurabi (c. 1754 BCE)
Summary: Utu (Shamash) is prominently mentioned in the prologue of Hammurabi's Code as the divine source of justice and fairness. He grants Hammurabi the authority to legislate and maintain order.
The Myth of Etana (c. 1800 BCE)
Summary: Utu is invoked by Etana, a king seeking the plant of birth to produce an heir. Utu provides guidance and support during Etana’s journey to the heavens with the help of an eagle, symbolizing his role as a divine guide.
Hymns to Shamash (c. 2000 BCE)
Summary: These hymns praise Utu’s attributes as the god of justice, light, and truth. They describe his daily journey across the sky and his ability to see all, linking him to the enforcement of moral and cosmic order.
The Marriage of Utu and Sherida (Aya) (c. 2000 BCE)
Summary: This tale celebrates Utu’s union with Sherida (Aya), the goddess of dawn. Their marriage symbolizes the harmony between light and the renewal of life, reinforcing Utu’s role as a life-giver and protector.
Sacred Texts: Solar hymns, c. 2100 BCE.