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Deity

Neiterkob

Maasai Deities

Neiterkob is a figure of superior intelligence in the mythology of Maa-speaking peoples, including the Maasai, credited with the ability to intercede with the supreme being Engai on behalf of humankind. His name means that which began the earth. Tradition places him on Oldoinyo Eibor, the White Mountain, in ancient times, where he is said to have interceded for a man named Enjemasi Enauner, granting him children and cattle, and to have taught him the domestication of cattle, laying the foundation of the pastoral way of life associated with the Kwavi people.

Facts
Attestation
Veneration Today
Historically attested; no continuous cult 1
Historicity
Not a historical person: a divine or other-than-human being 1
Function
Domain / Function
Creation and cosmogony 1
Identity
Gender
Male 2
Belief
Theology
Polytheistic: many gods 1
Sources
1. The Facts on File Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend
Anthony S. Mercatante, revised and expanded by James R. Dow, Facts on File
2. Neiterkob (Wikipedia)
Lead section: gender
Quote, Lead section: gender
He is perceived as having a superior intelligence and as having the ability to intercede with Engai or Enkai (supreme being in Maa mythology) on behalf of man.
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