Enuma Elish | The Babylonian Epic of Creation | Complete Audiobook | With Commentary
Education
Introduction
The Enuma Elish, also known as the Babylonian epic of creation, is one of the oldest creation myths in the world. The title derives from its opening lines, and the narrative explores the birth of the gods and the creation of the universe and humankind. Manuscripts containing the myth have been excavated from sites such as Ashur, Kish, and the library of Ashurbanipal in Nineveh, dating back to around 1200 BCE. However, these copies suggest an earlier version predating the fall of Sumer, around 1750 BCE.
Background
Originally, the myth likely featured Enlil, the Sumerian god, in a central role. However, due to the prominence of Babylon and the rise of Marduk as its chief deity, later versions emphasized Marduk's heroism in the epic. The Enuma Elish embodies the Babylonian ethos, establishing Marduk as the champion of the younger gods in their battle against the chaos represented by the primordial sea.
Summary of the Story
The epic begins in a chaotic universe dominated by the waters Absu (freshwater) and Tiamat (saltwater). From their union, the younger gods are born. However, their loudness disturbs Absu, who, with the encouragement of his advisor, Mumu, plots to destroy them. Tiamat warns her son Ea (sometimes Aia), who then casts Absu into a deep sleep and kills him. Tiamat, enraged over the death of her mate, seeks revenge and creates monstrous beings to battle the younger gods.
Amidst the turmoil, Marduk emerges as the champion of the younger gods, promising to defeat Tiamat. He triumphs after a fierce battle, splitting her body into two halves—one half becomes the heavens, and the other becomes the earth. Following his victory, Marduk creates humanity from the blood of the slain Kingu, who had led Tiamat's forces.
Commentary
The Enuma Elish profoundly influenced later religious texts, notably the Hebrew Bible. Prior to the 19th century, the Bible was considered the oldest text, but archaeological discoveries revealed many narratives shared origins with ancient Mesopotamian mythology. Comparisons have been drawn between the Enuma Elish and the Book of Genesis, with distinct similarities in structure and themes.
During the reign of Hammurabi (1792–1750 BCE), Marduk's importance in Babylonian religion grew, and the Enuma Elish became tied to the New Year Festival, serving to glorify Marduk’s kingship over the other gods.
The Text of Enuma Elish
The following sections present the text of the Enuma Elish, beginning with the primordial state of existence and concluding with Marduk's establishment of order in the universe:
Tablet One: The creation of the gods within the swirling waters and the disturbance caused by their loudness to Tiamat, leading to conflict.
Tablet Two: The assembly of gods and Tiamat’s preparation for war against her children as she creates terrifying monsters.
Tablet Three: The council of gods convenes to confront Tiamat’s growing rage, leading to the selection of Marduk as champion.
Tablet Four: The gathering of gods, recognizing Marduk's power, as they grant him kingship in preparation for the battle against Tiamat.
Tablet Five: Marduk’s victory over Tiamat, the division of her body to create the cosmos, and the establishment of constellations and seasons.
Tablet Six: The creation of humankind by Marduk, who tasks them with supporting the gods, thereby ensuring a delicate balance in existence.
Tablet Seven: Long praises of Marduk's accomplishments and his establishment as the supreme deity of Babylon.
Conclusion
The Enuma Elish not only narrates the triumph of order over chaos but also reflects Babylon's cultural heritage amidst a legacy of Sumerian civilization. It illustrates that life encompasses perpetual change, where old gods are supplanted by dynamic new entities, underscoring a narrative of renewal and evolution.
Keywords
- Enuma Elish
- Babylonian Epic
- Creation Myth
- Marduk
- Tiamat
- Absu
- Sumer
- Chaos
- Hebrew Bible
- Hammurabi
- Genesis
- Mythology
FAQ
What is the Enuma Elish?
The Enuma Elish is a Babylonian creation myth describing the origins of the gods, the universe, and the creation of humanity.
Who are the main deities in the Enuma Elish?
The central deities are Marduk, Tiamat, Absu, and the younger gods birthed from the union of Absu and Tiamat.
How did Marduk defeat Tiamat?
Marduk confronted Tiamat in battle, using his powers to entrap her with winds and ultimately shooting an arrow that split her in two.
What cultural significance does the Enuma Elish hold?
The epic reflects Babylonian culture and serves to legitimize Marduk's supremacy, symbolizing the victory of order over chaos and the rise of Babylon as a powerful civilization.
Are there similarities between the Enuma Elish and the Bible?
Yes, the Enuma Elish shares several narrative elements with the biblical Book of Genesis, including themes of creation from chaos and the establishment of humanity.
