Throughout the story of Inanna, her transformation from a young lady to a beloved goddess is portrayed, along with the frustrations and obstacles that come with these changes. This transformation reflects her functions and roles as a woman, aligning with the theory of the Great Goddess. In the context of an agrarian society, the relationship between Inanna and the Great Goddess symbolizes a woman’s ability to bring fertility, life, death, and rebirth. Symbolism and repetition are used to develop Inanna’s character, showcasing the power of this myth, but her specific transformations hold the true source of power. In the initial paragraphs of the story, we witness the first change in Inanna, setting the tone for the unfolding myth.
Inanna embarks on her journey towards divinity by discovering the huluppu-tree and diligently restoring it. This signifies her transition into Godhood. Inanna is immediately captivated by the rewards she anticipates from possessing and reviving the tree. She wonders, “How long until I have a shining throne to sit upon? How long until I have a shining bed to lie upon?” Throughout the text, we observe Inanna’s struggle to gain the recognition she believes she deserves. Seeking validation, she confides in the Sun God, Utu, and her brother, Gilgamesh, sharing, “I plucked the tree from the river; I brought it to my holy garden. I tended the tree, waiting for my shining throne and bed.” This repetition in the text emphasizes Inanna’s strong desire for acknowledgment. Her youthful nature and lack of experience drive her yearning for idealization. Now, our attention shifts to the tools that will enable Inanna to mature and acquire the necessary expertise to become the Goddess she aspires to be.
The central issue in this text is the huluppu-tree, which serves as a transition piece for Inanna’s growth. The significance lies not only in the tree’s presence, but also in its identity and purpose. Some scholars consider this Sumerian text to contain one of the earliest written descriptions of Genesis. The authors of Inanna use the huluppu-tree as an indirect reference to the heavens. Trees are often associated with strength, as they are firmly rooted in the Earth. In this case, the tree is portrayed as young, small, and inexperienced, reaching towards the heavens with the desire to join the other gods and goddesses. The huluppu-tree represents not only the essence of life, but also Inanna’s desire to become a beloved goddess. When three creatures refused to leave her tree, Inanna cried out, expressing her sorrow and frustration. Her path towards godhood was cleared when Gilgamesh, her brother, scared away the creatures and fashioned a throne and crown from the sacred huluppu-tree. Inanna’s attitude changes as she encounters Enkil, the God of Wisdom, and her cleverness enables her to fulfill her destiny of becoming a goddess. Readers can observe this shift in Inanna’s mindset as they progress through the text and interpret the unique language of this myth.Semantics play a crucial role in defining Inanna’s character in the story. The Queen of Heaven, Inanna, experiences various emotions throughout the story, and the use of semantics helps the reader understand these feelings. One notable example of Inanna’s growth is when she declares, “I, the Queen of Heaven, shall visit the God of Wisdom.” This demonstrates her newfound authority and determination to achieve anything she desires.
The encounter with Enkil further highlights Inanna’s development as both a psychological being and a Goddess. The text emphasizes her journey into Godhood and her psychological maturity through the words, “He who knows the me, the holy laws of heavens and earth, He who knows the heart of the gods.” This passage signifies her transition into a divine being.
Furthermore, Enki’s acceptance of Inanna as a fellow deity is evident when he instructs his servant Isimud to treat her as an equal. This demonstrates that Inanna has gained recognition and respect as a Goddess.
Overall, semantics play a crucial role in portraying Inanna’s growth and development as both a psychological being and a powerful deity in the story.
Inanna’s cunning in acquiring the sacred me from Enkil demonstrates her growth and maturity. She repeatedly accepts Enkil’s offer of the sacred me, stating “I take them.” This repetition emphasizes the significance of the transaction between Inanna and Enkil. After obtaining the fourteen me, Inanna places them on the Boat of Heaven, a gift from Enkil. This gift symbolizes Inanna’s final journey towards immortality, but she must first escape Enkil’s grasp. In this moment, Inanna relies on her servant/protector Ninshubur. Meanwhile, Enkil summons monsters to retrieve the fourteen me and the Boat of Heaven from Inanna and Ninshubur. This confrontation showcases Inanna’s newfound power as she issues commands to Ninshubur, instructing her to save the Boat of Heaven and the holy me. Ninshubur responds to Inanna’s calls five more times. As they enter the city of Uruk, Ninshubur suggests celebrating their victory. Inanna agrees and declares that on the day the Boat of Heaven enters the Nigulla Gate of Uruk, high water should flood the streets and all lands should proclaim her noble name. She desires her people to sing her praises.The myth highlights how Inanna has made her presence known to her followers, thanks to the sound advice of her sukkal. The repeated elements further emphasize the potency of this narrative.
The Boat of Heaven has been significant thus far in the narrative, but it is crucial to grasp its genuine significance. Across history, vessels have held the connotation of a lengthy and unpredictable expedition. In this context, the vessel refers to the Boat of Heaven, symbolizing Inanna’s physical form and the forthcoming journey she will embark on, namely her descent into the underworld.
Why would Inanna give up her temples and role as holy priestess to journey into the underworld? Her motive was to witness the funeral procession of her deceased brother-in-law. When faced with Neti, the gatekeeper of the underworld, Inanna demands that her desires be fulfilled, commanding, “Let it be done!” Upon being killed by Ereshkigal, the Queen of the Underworld, we observe that Inanna’s sukkal faithfully carries out the tasks assigned by her master, even in Inanna’s absence. This unwavering dedication of the servant symbolizes the devotion of all of Inanna’s followers to their goddess. Ninshubur exemplifies this commitment by gouging out her own eyes and assuming the appearance of a beggar. These actions display a level of loyalty that is difficult to comprehend. The reader witnesses Inanna’s incredible power and control, which culminates in a transformed version of herself from when she was initially introduced.
The arrival of the new goddess, Inanna, can be traced from the huluppu-tree to the Boat of Heaven, encompassing the skies of heaven and the depths of the underworld. Over time and with the aid of a great sukkal, Inanna has transformed from a delicate young woman into a formidable goddess. Through her encounters with various events and characters, she has earned her rightful place alongside other deities. Overcoming obstacles such as gaining the fourteen me from Enkil, Inanna has acquired essential experience. A deeper analysis of the text reveals additional symbols and semantics to truly comprehend the power inherent in this myth.
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