Ardat

Ardat is a term that appears in ancient Mesopotamian mythology, primarily associated with demons or female spirits. The most prominent mention of Ardat comes from Akkadian and Sumerian texts, where Ardat Lili is often described as a fearsome entity.

These beings are frequently depicted as seductive and dangerous, preying on men and sometimes children. They are thought to be associated with the night and the desert. Descriptions of Ardat Lili vary, but they are generally portrayed as having a destructive influence, capable of causing illness, misfortune, or even death.

In some traditions, Ardat Lili are seen as fallen angels or spirits who have lost their divine connection. They are sometimes linked to the underworld or a liminal space between the human and divine realms. Protective measures and incantations were often employed in ancient Mesopotamia to ward off the influence of Ardat and similar demonic entities. The concept of Ardat reflects the anxieties and beliefs surrounding the unseen forces that ancient peoples believed could impact their lives.