In Mesopotamian mythology, Pazuzu is the demon of the southwest wind associated with famine, disease, and destructive forces.
Pazuzu was known to Babylonian and Assyrian cultures during the first millennium BCE. He was depicted with a canine-like face, bulging eyes, a scaly body, birdlike talons, wings, and other composite animal features. His grotesque appearance expressed his supernatural power over dangerous winds and illness.
Although Pazuzu could bring harm, Mesopotamian religion also treated him as a protective force. Amulets bearing his image were used to guard homes, pregnant women, and infants from Lamashtu, a demon believed to attack mothers and children. In this role, a frightening demon could repel an even more immediate threat.
Pazuzu is often confused with Lamashtu or with Tiamat, but they have different roles. Modern audiences may also know him from The Exorcist, which greatly amplified his image as a possessing evil spirit.