Marduk facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marduk (Bêl) |
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9th century BC depiction of the Statue of Marduk, with his servant dragon Mušḫuššu. This was Marduk's main cult image in Babylon.
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| Abode | Babylon |
| Planet | Jupiter |
| Personal information | |
| Consort | Sarpanit |
| Children | Nabu |
| Parents | Enki and Damgalnuna |
| Siblings | Ninsar, Ninkurra, Uttu, Ninti |
| Greek equivalent | Zeus, Apollo |
| Roman equivalent | Jupiter |
Marduk was a very important god in ancient Mesopotamia. He was especially known as the special protector god of the city of Babylon.
When Babylon became a powerful city, Marduk also became more important. He slowly rose to become the main god of the Babylonian people. This happened around the time of King Hammurabi (about 18th century BC). By the second half of the second millennium BC, Marduk was seen as the leader of all Babylonian gods.
Contents
Who Was Marduk?
Marduk was a god of many things. He was linked to creation, water, plants, and even magic. People believed he was also a god of fairness and judgment. His main temple was called Esagila, located in the city of Babylon.
Marduk's Symbols
Marduk had a special divine weapon called Imhullu. His most famous companion was the dragon Mušḫuššu. This dragon was also his servant. Stories say Marduk once defeated this dragon.
What Does His Name Mean?
The name "Marduk" comes from the Babylonian people. It was probably said as "Marutuk." Some experts think his name means "immortal son of Utu." Or it might mean "bull calf of the sun god Utu." This might connect him to the ancient city of Sippar.
Marduk and the Planet Jupiter
Over time, people started to connect Marduk with the planet Jupiter. This connection became strong during the time of King Hammurabi. Ancient Babylonians were very interested in the stars and planets. They often linked their gods to celestial bodies.
Related pages
Images for kids
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The Babylonian king Hammurabi (standing), receiving his royal symbols. This image is from the top part of the Hammurabi's code of laws.
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A seal from ancient Assyria. It shows a worshipper between the gods Nabu and Marduk. Marduk is standing on his dragon, Mušḫuššu. This seal is from the 8th century BCE.
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An engraving by Gustave Doré from the 1800s. It shows a scene from "Bel and the Dragon." In the story, Daniel shows how the priests of Bel (another name for Marduk) were tricking people.
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See also
In Spanish: Marduk para niños
