BABYLON: NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

In Mesopotamia, the ninth month was a time of storms. In Sumer, it was called Gan-gan-e, “the month of clouds coming out.” This month is dedicated to Ninurta, the Storm God. (Storm Gods are protectors of the order of the universe.) During this month of storms, people hold footraces in honor of Ninurta. These races commemorate his victory over the Anzu Bird, which had stolen the Tablets of Fate. At the start of the races, people shout, “The Anzu is vanquished! Go and inform all the Gods!”

 

In Babylon, the month was called Kissilimu, and dedicated to the God of War, Nergal. As the fourth husband of Ereshkigal, the Queen of the Underworld, Nergal stays with Her for half the year. The war season begins upon his return during Kissilimu. At that time, a festival is held to honor his war chariot. People chant, “May the month Kissilimu, of the great warrior Nergal, absolve! The month Kissilimu, an abundant yield will be heaped up, the mighty hero, Nergal who has arisen from the Underworld!”