Scene of Libation to the God Shamash

[The Librarian]

 God Shamash

Louvre Location:

Sb 7

Richelieu room 3

 

• A sovereign pours libation on an altar before a seated god, recognisable by his tiara (crown) with several rows of horns.
• The god holds a ring and a rod, symbols of power and justice.
• A rayed sun disc dominates the scene.

These symbols are often associated
with Shamash, sun-god but also god of justice. 

 

The symbolism in the Bible is identical.

Judah gives his signet ‘ring’ and the ‘staff that is in thy hand’, both personal and precious, as a pledge to Tamar (Genesis 38:18). The rod of Moses became a symbol of his authority. - (Exodus 14) In his blessing on his deathbed, Jacob said to Judah that ‘the ruler’s staff’ shall not depart from between his feet until Shiloh comes (Genesis 49:10) This detail is an indication of future extended authority.  “The rod of your strength Jehovah  will send out of Zion, [saying:] ‘Go subduing in the midst of your enemies’ ” (Psalm 110:1, 2).  Paul the Apostle was to apply  these verses to Jesus Christ  who came as the representative  of God (Hebrews 10:12, 13). It is said that this 'King of kings' made war with justice with a rod of iron (Revelation 19:15).   In Babylon, the Hebrew form of the name Sheshbazzar, governor of the Jews returning from exile, meant: “Oh Shamash, protect the Father”. He is identified with Zerubbabel. - Ezra 1:8   Shamash and Code of Hammurabi

[The Librarian]