The titles given to Shamash by the early rulers are sufficiently definite to show in what relation he stood to his worshippers, and what the conceptions were that were formed of him.

He is, alternately, the king and the shepherd.

Since the kings also called themselves shepherds, no especial endearment is conveyed by this designation.

In the incantations, Shamash is frequently appealed to, either alone, or when an entire group of spirits and deities are enumerated.

He is called upon to give life to the sick man.