The primordial being associated with water in Mesopotamian beliefs is often represented as Apsu, the god of fresh water. Apsu's counterpart, Tiamat, embodies saltwater, and together they represent the meshing of these two elements that gives rise to creation. In the Enuma Elish, Apsu's role is critical in the genesis of gods and humanity. Water symbolizes life, chaos, and the essence of existence in Mesopotamian mythology, underpinning the beliefs regarding the origin and sustenance of all beings.