Akhkhazu

An Akhkhazu, in Mesopotamian mythology, is a class of demon or ghost. They are considered to be one of the seven classes of evil demons. Descriptions of Akhkhazu often paint them as disease-bearing and capable of causing a range of maladies in humans, including psychological disturbances and physical ailments. Like other Mesopotamian demons, their origin is tied to chaos and the disruption of cosmic order. They are often depicted as wandering spirits, lacking a proper resting place and seeking to inflict harm upon the living. Rituals and incantations were employed by priests and exorcists to ward off or banish Akhkhazu, aiming to restore health and well-being to the afflicted. Their malevolent nature and association with disease made them a significant source of fear in ancient Mesopotamian society. They are typically understood as a formless, unseen entity causing affliction, rather than a specific, named demon with a distinct personality.