At least this appears to be the case in Assyria, and the conclusion may be drawn, from the somewhat vague use of the terms, that the names belong to a very early period of the religion, when the distinction between gods and spirits was not yet clearly marked.

However that may be, in Babylonian hymns and incantations the Igigi and Anunnaki play a very prominent part.

Anu is represented as the father of both groups.

But they are also at the service of other gods, notably of Bel, who is spoken of as their 'lord,' of Ninib, of Marduk, of Ishtar, and of Nergal.

They prostrate themselves before these superior masters, and the latter at times manifest their anger against the Igigi.