Archaeologists in Iraq have discovered a cultic area near Girsu, also known as Uruku, an ancient Sumerian city which dates to the “early dynastic” period (2950-2350 BC). More than 300 broken ceremonial cups, jars, and spouted vessels, as well a significant number of animal bones were found in or near a “favissa” (a ritual pit) that was over 8 feet deep. One of the fragments had an inscription dedicated to Ningirsu, indicating that it was likely involved in a ritual sacrifice dedicated to the famed Mesopotamian warrior-god. Cuneiform tablets discovered at Girsu in the 19th and 20th centuries described a religious feast held in Ningirsu’s honor twice a year. This discovery sheds light on Sumerian cultic practices in Mesopotamia from before the time of Abraham.
OFF-SITE LINKS:
https://www.archaeology.org/ne
