Cedar Forest

The Cedar Forest (𒄑𒂞𒄑𒌁giš eren giš tir) is the glorious realm of the gods of Mesopotamian mythology.

It is guarded by the demigod Humbaba and was once entered by the hero Gilgamesh who dared cut down trees from its virgin stands during his quest for fame.

At the entrance to the Cedar Forest, Gilgamesh begins to tremble with fear; he prays to Shamash, reminding him of his promise to Ninsun that he would be protected.

Enkidu loses his nerve and retreats, prompting Gilgamesh to tackle him, resulting in a fierce struggle between them.

Gilgamesh and Enkidu enter the gloriously beautiful Cedar Forest and begin to cut down the trees.

Turning his face into a hideous mask, Humbaba begins to threaten the pair, and Gilgamesh runs and hides.

Gilgamesh refuses with insults, listing all the mortal lovers that Ishtar has had and recounting the dire fates they all met with at her hands.