Abzu
The Abzu (Cuneiform: 𒍪 𒀊, ZU.AB; Sumerian: abzu; Akkadian: apsû, 
) also called engur, (Cuneiform:𒇉, LAGAB×HAL; Sumerian: engur; Akkadian: engurru) literally, ab='ocean' zu='deep', was the name for the primeval sea below the void space of the underworld (Kur) and the earth (Ma) above. It may also refer to fresh water from underground aquifers that was given a religious fertilizing quality. Lakes, springs, rivers, wells, and other sources of fresh water were thought to draw their water from the abzu.
In Sumerian culture
In the city of Eridu, Enki's temple was known as E2-abzu (house of the cosmic waters) and was located at the edge of a swamp, an abzu. Certain tanks of holy water in Babylonian and Assyrian temple courtyards were also called abzu (apsû). Typical in religious washing, these tanks were similar to Judaism's mikvot, the washing pools of Islamic mosques, or the baptismal font in Christian churches.
In Sumerian cosmology
The Sumerian god Enki (Ea in the Akkadian language) was believed to have lived in the abzu since before human beings were created. His wife Damgalnuna, his mother Nammu, his advisor Isimud and a variety of subservient creatures, such as the gatekeeper Lahmu, also lived in the abzu.
Abzû (video game)
Abzû is an upcoming video game simulating underwater diving, to be released on PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Windows platforms in 2016.
History and design
Abzû was announced at Sony Computer Entertainment's 2014 E3 press conference; the first game under development by video game studio "Giant Squid", founded by Flower and Journey art director, Matt Nava, to be released exclusively on console on the PlayStation 4, and on Windows. The name derives from ancient words "ab" (ocean) and "zu" (to know) - intended to be interpreted as "ocean of wisdom". (see also Abzu, ancient mesopotamian name for the religious concept of a primeval sea.)
The game is a stylised swimming simulator, with an emphasis on exploring peaceful human interactions with aquatic animals. A simulation of, and interaction with shoaling behaviours of fish is incorporated into the game; predatory behaviours between fish are also modelled. The game is expected to incorporate some elements from typical "role playing games" such as upgrades to equipment.
Abzu (album)
Abzu is the sixth studio album by American black metal band Absu. It was released in 2011 on Candlelight Records. It features new members in the form of guitarist Vis Crom and bassist/vocalist Ezezu; although Ezezu did join the band after the recording of Absu, this is his first studio recording with Absu.
Track list
- "E-A"
- "A Myriad of Portals"
- "3rd Tablet"
- "Warren of Imhullu"
- "The Waters – The Denizens"
- "E-A" (Reprise)
Personnel
Absu
Additional personnel
Podcasts:
-
by Absu
Abzu
by: AbsuVitriol = Abraxas = Xnoubis = Meithras
Visita = Sun = Heart = Gold
Interiora = Moon = Brow = Silver
Terrae = Mercury = Crown = Mercury
Rectificando = Jupiter = Navel = Tin
Invenies = Mars = Sacral = Iron
Occultum = Venus = Throat = Copper
Lapidem = Saturn = Base = Lead
By the sevenfold process, V.I.T.R.I.O.L reigns
No one can distress its southern point
By the evidence, nature delivered two
No one can disrupt their dual symmetry
Stare towards the heart – stare at the stone
Your eye unveiled – your nucleus
Writhe on the mace – skim on the throne
Your vessel sealed – your inmost light
They are mercurial, active, both close at hand
It is balance of the hidden stone
One must never know more than the other
It is of knowledge: Prima Materia
Chorus:
Saturn follows lead – Abraxas of draught
Eye of Asaru
Seventh is the root – Vitriolistic base
The triad and the position of Stone
Saturn follows lead – Abraxas of draught
Seed of Asaru
Seventh is the root – Vitriolistic base
The formulary of Tria Prima
Heart of bullion – the golden sun
The silver moon with distinct brow
Crown of the crown – thee – Mercury
Jupiter’s tin knifed in navel
Ironed by the rouge, sacral Mars
Throat of Venus glazed with copper
Chorus