Appu (Hurrian)

Appu is a figure known from Hurrian mythology, primarily appearing in the myth known as "The Song of Ullikummi." He is a mortal farmer who, along with his wife, eventually fathers a son, a monstrous being named Ullikummi, through the machinations of the god Kumarbi.

Appu and his wife, who remains unnamed in surviving texts, are initially portrayed as childless and despairing. Kumarbi, seeking to overthrow the storm god Teshub, chooses Appu as the vehicle for his revenge. He arranges for Appu to impregnate his wife by using a specific ritual or substance (details are not fully preserved). The resulting offspring, Ullikummi, is made of stone and poses a significant threat to the established divine order.

While Appu is a mortal man, his involvement in the myth highlights themes of divine intervention in human affairs and the unintended consequences that can arise from such actions. His role is primarily passive; he is a pawn in the power struggle between the gods Kumarbi and Teshub, rather than an active participant. His significance lies in being the earthly parent of the monstrous Ullikummi.