Enki
Enki is a Sumerian god associated with freshwater, wisdom, crafts, and creation. In Akkadian tradition he is known as Ea.
Abzu: The subterranean freshwater ocean in Mesopotamian cosmology, associated with Enki and the source of springs and rivers. Enki dwells in and governs this freshwater realm.
Enki and Ninhursag: A Sumerian myth in which Enki’s actions in Dilmun lead to illness and healing through divine birth. It dramatizes Enki’s creative force and complicated relationship with Ninhursag.
Enlil: A major Sumerian god associated with air, authority, and command over the divine assembly. Enlil’s authority and flood decisions often contrast with Enki’s counsel and interventions.
Ea: The Akkadian name and later Mesopotamian form of the god known in Sumerian as Enki. Ea is Enki’s counterpart in Akkadian-language texts and traditions.
Me: Divine powers or ordinances in Sumerian thought that govern aspects of civilization and cosmic order. Enki possesses and distributes these powers in myths about the organization of society.
Sumerian religion: The religious traditions, deities, rituals, and myths of ancient Sumer. Enki’s many powers belong to this broader pantheon and religious world.
Enki and Ninmah: A Sumerian creation story in which Enki and the goddess Ninmah shape human beings and test their destinies. The story presents Enki as a participant in humanity’s creation.
Marduk: The chief god of Babylon, who defeats Tiamat in the creation epic Enuma Elish. Marduk inherits aspects of Ea’s wisdom while occupying a different place in Babylonian theology.
Eridu: An ancient Sumerian city in southern Mesopotamia, regarded in tradition as one of the earliest cities. Eridu was Enki’s principal cult center.
Sumerian creation myth: The varied Sumerian accounts explaining the origins of the world, gods, and human beings. Enki’s creative acts place him within explanations of how human life began.