Early Dynastic II-IIIA Period , Ca. 2700-2500 BCE

(BLMJ 0954)

Worshippers such as this one stand in perpetual reverence and supplication to a god. Both kings and commoners had need of divine help and thus these worshippers represent all types of people. They not only solicited aid for themselves but also for all those they held dear, as stated in one inscription: "... for the lives of his wife and children, he dedicated this (statue) to Ninshubur, his goddess ... Its (the statue’s) name is "Have mercy on (my) prayers!" These worshippers are found on temple benches from Iran to Syria and especially in southern Mesopotamia, the heartland of the Sumerians. They testify to the close relationship between the individual and the divine. The individual could expect help and guidance if he faithfully praised and obeyed his god, as well as anger and punishment in the form of misfortune and suffering if he transgressed the divine commandments. True penitence and confession of sins might lead to mercy, forgiveness and absolution.