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What responsibilities did Anu have in Mesopotamian religion?

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Historical map showing ancient Mesopotamia with labeled locations of major archaeological and historical sites. Symbols and color codes indicate sites from the prehistoric era, Sumerian-Akkadian culture, Babylonian and Neo-Babylonian eras, Assyrian civilization, Hurrian era, late Persian, Greek, and Parthian eras, as well as marshland areas. The map covers the region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, including present-day Iraq and surrounding areas.
Mesopotamian religion

In Mesopotamian religion, Anu was recognized as the sky god and held a position as the highest deity within a triad that also included Enlil and Ea.12

Despite his theoretical status as the supreme god, Anu’s active responsibilities in mythology, hymns, and cultic practice were relatively limited. His primary roles and associations included:1

  • Divine Progenitor: He was considered the father of all the gods, as well as the father of various evil spirits and demons, such as the demoness Lamashtu.1
  • Patronage of Kingship: Anu served as the god of kings, symbolizing the authority and strength associated with the office.1
  • Guardian of Time: He held responsibility over the yearly calendar.1

While he was originally associated with herding and depicted as a great bull, his role as a sky god remained his most defining characteristic in the Mesopotamian pantheon.1