Ninhursag: The ancient Sumerian mother goddess of the mountains
Ninhursag was a prominent deity in Sumerian mythology. Also known as Ninmah, Damgalnuna, and several other names, Ninhursag was revered as one of the seven great deities of Sumer. She played a multifaceted role as a mother goddess, a nurturer, and a deity associated with mountains. Her legacy is enshrined in myths, temple hymns, and royal inscriptions, portraying her as a central figure in Mesopotamian religion and culture.
Origins of Ninhursag
The name “Ninhursag” translates to “lady of the sacred mountain,” derived from Sumerian NIN (“lady”) and ḪAR.SAG̃ (“sacred mountain”). This title possibly reflects her association with mountainous landscapes or the location of her temples. Ninhursag’s significance was widespread across smaller towns and cities, and she was deeply embedded in the spiritual lives of ancient Sumerians.
Multiple Names and Epithets
Ninhursag was known by many names, each representing a specific aspect of her divine role:
- Ninmah (“Great Queen”): Emphasized her authority and divine power.
- Nintu (“Lady of Birth”): Highlighted her association with childbirth and fertility.
- Mamma/Mami (“Mother”): Depicted her as a nurturing figure.
- Aruru: Often associated with creation and procreation.
- Belet-Ili (“Mistress of the Gods”): Connected her to a broader divine role in the pantheon.
Her titles also included “womb goddess” (shassuru), “midwife of the gods” (tabsut ili), and “mother of all children.” In some traditions, she was identified with Ki, the earth goddess, or linked to other mother goddesses such as Damgalnuna and Damkina.
Functions and Roles
Initially, Ninhursag was primarily seen as a nurturing deity rather than a goddess of childbirth. However, over time, she became associated with the biological processes of birth and was syncretized with other birth goddesses. Kings of Lagash described her as a midwife who suckled them, emphasizing her nurturing aspect.
Ninhursag’s role extended to protective and healing functions. Rituals invoking her names, such as Damgalnunna and Nintur, sought her assistance in childbirth and protection against malevolent forces. In myths like Enki and Ninhursag, she healed Enki, further affirming her role as a restorer of life.
Ninhursag was associated with creation, kingship, childbirth, and nurturing. Early on, she was seen as a nurturing deity, later becoming a goddess of birth and midwifery.
As a mother figure, Ninhursag symbolized authority and legitimacy. Her connection to Sumerian kingship is evident in votive objects dedicated by rulers who referred to her as their divine protector. She also crowned kings in rituals, as seen in Babylonian traditions.
Ninhursag’s ties to mountains extended to her association with wild animals like deer and goats. These creatures were often depicted in her temple decorations and connected her to the natural world.
Myths Involving Ninhursag
Akkadian cylinder seal impression shows vegetation goddess, likely Ninhursag, enthroned and surrounded by worshippers (2350–2150 BC).
Enki and Ninhursag
In this myth, Ninhursag plays a pivotal role in the transformation of the barren land of Dilmun into a fertile paradise. Her relationship with Enki results in the birth of several deities, symbolizing the cycles of fertility and growth. The narrative reflects her role in nurturing and sustaining life.
Enki and Ninmah
This creation myth illustrates Ninhursag’s (as Ninmah) partnership with Enki in shaping humanity. Their collaboration emphasizes her creative aspect, while the subsequent competition between the two highlights her wisdom and problem-solving abilities.
Other Myths
Ninhursag appears in the Anzû Epic, where she supports her son Ninurta, and in Ninurta’s Exploits, where she gains her name after a victorious campaign. These myths underline her role as a mother and mentor to other deities.
Family and Relationships
Ninhursag’s origins are unclear, as her parentage is not described in any texts. Her consorts varied in different traditions, with Šulpae being her most commonly attested spouse. In myths, she is sometimes depicted as the sister or consort of Enlil, or as the consort of Enki.
Ninhursag is portrayed as the mother of many deities, including Ninurta, Ashgi, Paniĝinĝarra, and Lisin. Myths also attribute the birth of minor deities to her actions, symbolizing her life-giving power.
Ninhursag’s consorts included Šulpae and Enki (in some myths). Her children included Ninurta, Ashgi, and others, often tied to her roles in creation myths. Image: Detail of Enki from the Adda Seal, an Akkadian cylinder seal from circa 2300 BC.
Worship and Temples
Ninhursag’s cult was prominent in cities like Adab, Kish, and Ur. Temples dedicated to her, such as the E-maḫ (“majestic house”), served as centers of worship and ritual. Her role as a protector of kings and her association with childbirth made her veneration widespread among both rulers and commoners.
Ninhursag’s multifaceted nature makes her a fascinating figure in Sumerian mythology. As a mother goddess, she embodies creation, nurture, and protection.
While Ninhursag’s prominence declined in later periods, her worship persisted in modified forms. She became syncretized with other deities, such as Belet-Ili, and her functions evolved to adapt to the changing religious landscape.
Iconography
Ninhursag was often depicted seated on mountains, symbolizing her connection to the earth and natural landscapes. Her hair, styled in an omega shape, and her tiered skirt were characteristic features. Stags and other wild animals frequently appeared as symbols of her nurturing and protective aspects.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ninḫursaĝ
What does the name “Ninhursag” mean?
The name means “lady of the sacred mountain,” derived from the Sumerian words NIN (“lady”) and ḪAR.SAG̃ (“sacred mountain”).
What are her major epithets and alternate names?
She was also called Ninmah (“Great Queen”), Nintu (“Lady of Birth”), Mami (“Mother”), Aruru, and Belet-Ili (“Mistress of the Gods”).
What are her notable myths?
In Enki and Ninhursag, she creates life and punishes Enki for his transgressions. In Enki and Ninmah, she competes with Enki in creating humans.
What symbols and animals are associated with her?
She is depicted seated on mountains, wearing a horned crown or tiered robe, and associated with deer and the omega-shaped symbol, possibly representing her nurturing nature.
Where was she worshipped?
Her temples, such as the E-maḫ in Adab and sites in Nippur and Lagash, reflect her widespread worship, especially under various epithets like Ninmah and Dingirmah.
