shammash

Shammash is a term used in ancient Mesopotamian mythology to refer to the sun god. The name "Shammash" is derived from the Akkadian language and translates to "the sun." In the mythology of ancient Mesopotamia, Shammash is often depicted as a young, handsome god, often accompanied by his sister, the moon goddess Sin. Together, they represent the duality of day and night. Shammash is associated with justice, truth, and the cycle of life and death. He is often depicted as a judge, presiding over the afterlife, where he weighs the hearts of the deceased to determine their fate. In some texts, Shammash is also associated with the planet Venus, reflecting his role as a bringer of light and life. Despite his importance in Mesopotamian mythology, Shammash is not as prominent as other gods like Enlil or Enki, and his role has evolved over time. In later periods, his functions were sometimes absorbed by other deities.