In Dohuk, Assyrians celebrated the Babylonian New Year, Akitu, on Monday, joined by the Iraqi Christian community from America, Europe, and Australia.
The festivities kicked off with a vibrant procession originating from the Mar Gorgis church in downtown Duhok, winding through the city streets until culminating at “Mazi Mall” square.
Representatives from across Iraq, as well as a significant turnout from the United States and European nations, graced the event, alongside delegations hailing from Australia and Canada.
The occasion was marked by traditional dances, captivating performances, and spirited renditions of national and patriotic songs.
For Assyrians, Chaldeans, and Syriacs in Iraq, Akitu is observed on the first day of April according to the Gregorian calendar, standing as one of the oldest religious festivals in Mesopotamia’s history.
Historical accounts trace the roots of this celebration back to the 5th millennium BCE, with some scholars suggesting its origins date even further, to the Ubaid period around 5300 BCE in Iraq. It was traditionally celebrated by the Sumerians to herald the arrival of spring and the renewal of the land for agricultural purposes.
The festival’s name, “Akitu,” believed to stem from the Sumerian word “Akiti” or “Akítu,” denoting barley, underscores its agricultural significance.
Akitu holds profound religious symbolism, serving as the Assyrian Babylonian New Year, observed over a span of 12 days. The rituals performed during this period reflect the creation myth and the tale of “Enuma Elish,” wherein the god Marduk is rejuvenated by his son, Nabu, ushering in a new cycle of life in nature.
In the ancient Babylonian language, the holiday was known as “Rēš Šattim,” translating to “head of the year.” To this day, Iraqi Christians, speaking the Sureth language, still refer to it as “Rēš Šattē,” signifying the beginning of the year.
