How were myths used in magical rituals in the ancient Middle East?

In the ancient Middle East, myths served as a foundational element in magic, which functioned by attempting to compel the gods rather than merely imploring them. Magicians utilized these narratives to establish precedents for desired outcomes, effectively using the myth as a blueprint for ritual action.1

To banish evil or resolve a crisis, a practitioner would invoke a cosmic myth that depicted the triumph of good over evil. For example, to protect a client, a magician might recite accounts of divine beings defeating chaotic forces, such as the slaying of the seven-headed Leviathan by gods like Baal or Anath. By reenacting or reciting these stories, the magician sought to align the present situation with a successful divine precedent, thereby ensuring the victory of order over chaos.1

Furthermore, some myths were expressed through the symbolism of action, where the ritual served as a dramatic enactment of the narrative. In these contexts, the myth provided the "language" for the ritual, making the purpose of the ceremony explicit. Whether through recitation or symbolic performance, these myths were essential tools for navigating the uncertainties of life, such as agricultural success or protection from malevolent forces.213