Place of Origin: Babylon (Mesopotamia)
Origin Date: ~1800 BCE (Babylonian period)
Domain: Cosmic order, rulership
Symbols: Spade, serpent-dragon
Attributes: Creation, kingship
Epithets: “Lord of the Gods,” “Victor of Chaos.”
Equivalents: Greek: Zeus (in authority), Hindu: Vishnu (cosmic order).
Religion: Mesopotamian Mythology
Sacred Texts: "Enuma Elish," c. 1200 BCE
Iconography: Depicted wielding weapons, standing victorious over chaos.
Relations: Son of Enki
Description
Marduk rose to prominence during the Babylonian era, particularly in the "Enuma Elish." He was credited with defeating Tiamat, the primordial chaos dragon, and creating the world from her remains. Marduk symbolized order, kingship, and cosmic balance, becoming the patron deity of Babylon.
Narratives
Enuma Elish (c. 1100 BCE)
Summary: This Babylonian creation epic tells the story of Marduk's rise to power. He defeats Tiamat, the primordial chaos dragon, using his divine weapons and establishes order in the universe. Marduk creates the heavens and earth from Tiamat's body and assigns roles to the other gods, solidifying his position as the supreme deity.
The Epic of Creation (Babylonian New Year Festival) (c. 1100 BCE)
Summary: During the Akitu festival, the Enuma Elish was recited to honor Marduk's victory over chaos and his role in maintaining cosmic balance. This ritual reinforced his status as the protector and ruler of Babylon.
The Myth of Zu (c. 1200 BCE)
Summary: In this myth, the bird-like demon Zu steals the Tablet of Destinies, disrupting the divine order. Marduk is called upon to retrieve the tablet and restore balance, showcasing his role as a defender of cosmic law.
The Creation of Humanity (c. 2000 BCE)
Summary: Marduk collaborates with Enki to create humans from the blood of a defeated god. This act ensures that humans will serve the gods, maintaining the divine order established by Marduk.
The Marriage of Marduk and Sarpanit (c. 1800 BCE)
Summary: This myth celebrates Marduk's union with Sarpanit, the goddess of birth and fertility. Their marriage symbolizes the harmony between creation and life, further emphasizing Marduk's role as a life-giver and protector.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Worshiped in the Esagila temple complex during the Akitu Festival.