1. MEs: MEs are a set of divine decrees or powers that encompass various aspects of civilization, including knowledge, wisdom, craftsmanship, and societal norms. In Sumerian mythology, the MEs are often described as physical objects, tablets, or stones that embody these abstract concepts. According to mythological texts such as the “Enuma Elish” and the “Epic of Gilgamesh,” the MEs were originally possessed by the god Enki (Ea), who bestowed them upon humanity.

The MEs represent the fundamental principles and skills that govern human civilization, such as writing, agriculture, craftsmanship, and justice. They are considered essential for maintaining order and prosperity in the world. In some myths, the theft or loss of certain MEs is associated with chaos and upheaval, highlighting their importance in maintaining cosmic balance.

2. Tablet of Destinies: The Tablet of Destinies is a powerful artifact that is said to confer control over the fates and destinies of gods and mortals alike. In Mesopotamian mythology, the Tablet is often associated with the god Enlil, who is depicted as the supreme ruler of the pantheon and the keeper of divine decrees.

According to mythological texts, including the “Epic of Gilgamesh,” the Tablet of Destinies grants its possessor authority over the heavens and the earth. It symbolizes the cosmic order and the divine right to rule. In some myths, the Tablet is stolen or contested by various deities, leading to conflicts and struggles for power.

3. Weapons of Terror: The Weapons of Terror, also known as the “Seven Divine Weapons,” are a set of mythical weapons wielded by the gods in Mesopotamian mythology. These weapons are imbued with supernatural powers and are capable of causing destruction on a cosmic scale. The exact nature of these weapons varies in different texts, but they are often associated with storms, earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters.

In mythological narratives, the gods sometimes employ the Weapons of Terror to punish disobedient humans or to assert their dominance over rival deities. These weapons symbolize the awesome power and authority of the gods, as well as the capricious nature of the natural world.

4. The Great Calamity: The Great Calamity is a mythological event often depicted in Mesopotamian texts as a catastrophic flood that destroys all life on earth. The most famous account of the Great Calamity is found in the “Epic of Gilgamesh,” where the hero Gilgamesh learns of the impending flood from the god Ea and builds an ark to save himself, his family, and various animals from the deluge. The Great Calamity is typically interpreted as a mythological expression of natural disasters and the unpredictability of the natural world. It serves as a reminder of the gods’ power to punish humanity for its transgressions and the importance of divine intervention in preserving order and balance in the cosmos.

In summary, MEs, the Tablet of Destinies, the Weapons of Terror, and the Great Calamity are all key elements in Mesopotamian mythology that reflect the ancient Mesopotamians’ beliefs about the nature of divinity, cosmic order, and the relationship between gods and mortals. While these concepts are rooted in mythological symbolism, they also provide insights into the cultural, religious, and philosophical beliefs of ancient Mesopotamian society.