Labbu
In Mesopotamian mythology, Labbu is described as a giant sea serpent, embodying chaos and destruction. This formidable creature stands as a symbol of the untamed forces of nature, showcasing the ancients’ fascination with and fear of the unpredictable elements.
At a glance
- Tradition
- Mesopotamian mythology
- Trait family
- The Tempest-Bringers
Near this figure
Traits
Read from the figure's description, which a model wrote. Open "why" for the sentence a trait came from.
Form
- Bronze metallic hide
why
scales that gleam like polished bronze under the sun
- Body of cosmic immeasurable size
why
Its massive body is said to stretch for leagues, capable of encircling entire islands in its coils.
- Serpentine elongated body
why
Described in ancient texts as a creature of immense size and terrifying aspect, Labbu is often portrayed as a serpentine beast with scales that gleam like polished bronze under the sun.
- Multi-headed body
why
In some versions of the myth, Labbu is described as having multiple heads, each capable of spewing forth torrents of water or deadly venom.
- Corrosive venom secretion
why
In some versions of the myth, Labbu is described as having multiple heads, each capable of spewing forth torrents of water or deadly venom.
Behaviour
- Causes storms or tsunamis
why
Its movements are said to cause great upheavals in the sea, creating massive waves and whirlpools that can swallow entire fleets.
- Whirlpool swallows ships whole
why
Its movements are said to cause great upheavals in the sea, creating massive waves and whirlpools that can swallow entire fleets.
- Defeated by a god or hero restoring order
why
Others see it as a test for heroes and gods alike, with its defeat symbolizing the triumph of order over chaos.
Sight and sound
- Roar audible for miles
why
The roar of Labbu is likened to the sound of a thousand thunderstorms
Offensive powers
- Weather manipulation
why
Its movements are said to cause great upheavals in the sea, creating massive waves and whirlpools that can swallow entire fleets.
- Storm summoning
why
The roar of Labbu is likened to the sound of a thousand thunderstorms, and its breath is said to be capable of creating hurricanes.
- Venom spit
why
In some versions of the myth, Labbu is described as having multiple heads, each capable of spewing forth torrents of water or deadly venom.
Roles
Judged from the works' own entries, not from the description. Carries: the figure holds the role. Meets: the role is in its stories, held by something it meets.
- Shadow carries
3 citations
- Carol Rose, Giants, Monsters, and Dragons, s.v. "Labbu."
- Jeremy Black and Anthony Green, Gods, Demons and Symbols of Ancient Mesopotamia, s.v. "Labbu."
- Theresa Bane, Encyclopedia of Beasts and Monsters in Myth, Legend and Folklore, s.v. "Labbu."
- Hero meets
3 citations
- Carol Rose, Giants, Monsters, and Dragons, s.v. "Labbu."
- Jeremy Black and Anthony Green, Gods, Demons and Symbols of Ancient Mesopotamia, s.v. "Labbu."
- Theresa Bane, Encyclopedia of Beasts and Monsters in Myth, Legend and Folklore, s.v. "Labbu."