He gropes his way for one double hour,
With dense darkness enclosing him on all sides.
He gropes his way for two double hours,
With dense darkness enclosing him on all sides.
After traversing a distance of twenty-four hours' march, Gilgamesh beholds a tree of splendid appearance, decorated with precious stones and bearing beautiful fruit. Finally he reaches the sea, where the maiden Sabitum has her palace and throne. Upon seeing the hero, the maiden locks the gates of her palace and will not permit Gilgamesh to pass across the sea. Gilgamesh pleads with Sabitum, tells of the loss of his friend Eabani, 'who has become dust,'[923] and whose fate he does not wish to share.
Gilgamesh speaks to Sabitum:
"[Now] Sabitum, which is the way to Parnapishtim?
If it is possible, let me cross the ocean.
If it is not possible, let me stretch myself on the ground."[924]
Sabitum speaks to Gilgamesh: