Place of Origin: Sumer (Mesopotamia)
Origin Date: ~3000 BCE
Domain: Earth, reproduction.
Symbols: Mountains, birth canal.
Attributes: Fertility, creation.
Epithets: “Mother of Gods,” “Nurturer of Life.”
Equivalents: Greek: Gaia, Norse: Jord.
Religion: Mesopotamian Mythology
Sacred Texts: “Enki and Ninhursag,” c. 2000 BCE.
Iconography: Depicted with mountains and symbols of fertility.
Relations: Consort of Enki, mother of various gods.
Description
Ninhursag, known as a nurturing figure, was central to the creation of life and the fertility of the earth. She played a pivotal role in myths about humanity’s origins, serving as a mother figure to gods and mortals alike.
Narratives
Enki and Ninhursag (c. 2100 BCE)
Summary: This Sumerian myth recounts the interactions between Ninhursag and Enki in the paradise of Dilmun. Enki consumes sacred plants created by Ninhursag, leading to his illness. Ninhursag heals him by giving birth to deities representing the affected parts of his body, emphasizing themes of fertility, creation, and balance.
Enki and Ninmah (c. 2100 BCE)
Summary: In this creation myth, Ninhursag (as Ninmah) competes with Enki to create humans. While Enki creates flawed beings, Ninmah demonstrates her nurturing role by caring for them. The story highlights her significance as a mother goddess and her role in shaping humanity.
The Creation of Humanity (c. 2000 BCE)
Summary: Ninhursag, as the womb goddess Nintu, is chosen by the gods to create humans. She fashions them from clay mixed with the blood of a slain deity. This myth underscores her role as a creator and nurturer of life.
Ninurta’s Exploits (c. 2000 BCE)
Summary: In this myth, Ninhursag is renamed by her son Ninurta after his victory over the demon Asag. The story celebrates her role as a mother and her connection to the mountains, which are formed from the corpses of Ninurta’s enemies.
Atrahasis (c. 1800 BCE)
Summary: Ninhursag appears as Nintu, the womb goddess, in this flood myth. She creates humanity and later mourns their destruction during the flood. Her grief and eventual reconciliation with the gods highlight her nurturing and protective nature.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Honored in fertility rituals and agricultural ceremonies.