The reference in these lines is to an attack upon the city of Babylon. The war-god is pictured as striking out in all directions, imprisoning the inhabitants of Babylon within the city walls, working havoc outside of the city, and not stopping short at entering the palace. The metaphor of the war-god taking on the form of a lion confirms the identification of Dibbarra with Nergal, who is generally pictured as a lion.
In the following lines the enemy who makes this attack on Babylon is introduced. He is designated as a 'governor,' and Dibbarra is represented as giving him certain instructions to carry out. The title 'governor' given to this enemy may be taken as an indication that the epic deals with the rivalry existing among the states of Babylonia, each represented by its capital. Ishum continues his address to Dibbarra:
The heart of the governor, intent upon taking vengeance on Babylon, was enraged,
For capturing the possessions of the enemy, he sends out his army,
Filled with enmity towards the people.
Dibbarra is represented as addressing this governor:
In the city whither I send thee,
Thou shall fear no one, nor have compassion.
Kill the young and old alike,
The tender suckling likewise—spare no one.