Aratta is a mythical country located in the Ararat Mountains, encompassing Lake Van and other areas, as mentioned in Sumerian mythology. It is associated with the names of Enmerkar and Lugalbanda, two early (semi-legendary) kings of Uruk, who are also mentioned in the Sumerian King List.
Description in Sumerian Literature
Aratta is described in Sumerian literature as a fabulously rich place, abundant in gold, silver, lapis lazuli, and other valuable materials. It is also home to many skilled artisans who know how to process these materials. Despite its wealth, Aratta is far away from Uruk and difficult to reach. It is the home of the goddess Inanna (also known as Anahit, Astghik, Ishtar), who later begins to favor Uruk instead of Aratta. According to the myths, Aratta was eventually conquered by Enmerkar of Uruk.
The Mythical Movement of Power
In the Sumerian King List, Eridu is called the city of the first kings. The stories of Inanna, the goddess of Uruk, tell how she went to Eridu to obtain the gifts of civilization. Initially, Enki, the god of Eridu, tried to reclaim these sources of power, but later he willingly admitted that Uruk was now the center of the earth. This myth symbolizes the movement of the center of power to the north.
The Gods of Uruk
The gods of Uruk (Sumerian Unug, biblical Erech, Greek Orkhoya, modern Varka) were An and Inanna. In ancient Armenian mythology, An (Ana) corresponds to Anahit, and Astghik is the mother and wife of Vahagn, as well as the wife and daughter of Van.
Connections to Babylonian Texts
Babylonian texts speak of the creation of Eridu by the god Marduk, similar to the creation of the city of Van by the first man Vahagn. Eridu is described as the first city, “the holy city, the dwelling of their (other gods) delight (pleasure).” Uruk could be reached from the Ararat Mountains by river ships along the Euphrates.
Erech in the Bible
Erech was one of the most ancient cities of Babylonia. In the Bible, it is mentioned among the cities of Nimrod (Genesis 10:10). In cuneiform texts, it is called Uruk and has been mentioned since ancient times. Erech is one of the four cities in the land of Shinar (a region in Mesopotamia), which initially constituted the kingdom of Nimrod, the son of Cush and the grandson of Ham. The other cities of this kingdom were Babylon, Akkad, and Calne.
The Legend of Nimrod
Nimrod, who tried to establish autocracy and conquer the Ararat country, was killed by Hayk at Lake Van and buried on the eponymous mountain Nimrut.
The Deity Anu
Anu, in Sanskrit, means Atom, a title of Brahma, who is considered both an atom and the infinite universe. This alludes to the pantheistic nature of this god. In Chaldean mythology, Anu is one of the highest Babylonian deities, the King of Angels and Spirits, and the Lord of the city.
Conclusion
Aratta, with its rich mythology and connections to various ancient cultures, remains a fascinating subject of study. Its legends and stories provide valuable insights into the beliefs and traditions of ancient civilizations, highlighting the interconnectedness of mythologies across different regions.
Artatsolum
Based on an excerpt from the article: Er and One
