Me

Definition

In Sumerian mythology, 'me' refers to the divine decrees or principles that govern the cosmos and human society. These principles encapsulate various aspects of life, including kingship, wisdom, and creation, acting as a framework through which deities impart their powers and functions. The concept of 'me' is vital in understanding how the Sumerians perceived the interplay between divine authority and earthly existence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Me' is considered a vital aspect of Sumerian religious belief, where it represents not only physical objects but also abstract concepts like justice and authority.
2. Each city-state in Sumer believed that it possessed specific 'me' that defined its identity and legitimacy, often linked to their patron deities.
3. The transfer or bestowal of 'me' was significant in legitimizing rulers; when a king received 'me' from a deity, it signified divine approval of his rule.
4. The concept of 'me' illustrates the Sumerians’ belief in a cosmic order where divine principles directly influenced human affairs.
5. Mythological narratives often involve conflicts over 'me', depicting how gods contend for these principles, reflecting the importance of these decrees in maintaining societal structure.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of 'me' influence the understanding of leadership in Sumerian society?
  • 'Me' significantly influenced leadership in Sumerian society by establishing a divine framework for authority. When rulers were believed to receive 'me' from the gods, it granted them legitimacy and justified their power over the people. This divine endorsement was essential in maintaining social order, as the ruler’s role was not just political but also religious, connecting them directly to the will of the gods.
• Discuss the relationship between 'me' and the city-states of Sumer. How did each city's unique 'me' contribute to its identity?
  • 'Me' played a crucial role in shaping the identity of each Sumerian city-state by representing the specific principles and attributes associated with their patron deities. Each city-state believed it held unique 'me', which defined its governance, culture, and social structure. This belief fostered a sense of pride and distinctiveness among the residents, reinforcing loyalty to their city-state while creating rivalries with others that claimed different sets of divine decrees.
• Evaluate the broader implications of 'me' on Sumerian mythology and how it reflects their worldview regarding order and chaos.
  • 'Me' has broader implications on Sumerian mythology by showcasing their belief in an ordered universe governed by divine principles. The existence of 'me' reflects the Sumerians’ worldview that chaos could arise if these decrees were not upheld. Myths often depicted conflicts over 'me', symbolizing struggles between order and chaos, suggesting that maintaining adherence to these divine principles was essential for societal harmony and stability.

Related terms

Ziggurat: A massive terraced structure that served as a temple and administrative center in ancient Sumerian cities, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth.

Anu: The Sumerian sky god, often regarded as the father of the gods and associated with kingship and the granting of 'me' to rulers.

Enki: The Sumerian god of wisdom and water, known for his role in creating humanity and bestowing 'me' upon civilization to ensure order and prosperity.