I must weep for the wives who are torn from their husbands' side.
For the children I must weep who are snatched away (?) before their time.
Go, watchman, open thy gate.
Deal with her according to the ancient laws.
The scene that follows embodies, again, views of the nether world as developed in the schools. Corresponding to the seven zones surrounding the earth,[1170] the nether world is pictured as enclosed by seven gates. Through these Ishtar must pass, before she is ushered into the presence of Allatu.
The watchman went and opened his gate.
Enter, O mistress, welcome in Cuthah.[1171]
The great house[1172] of the land without return greets thee.[1173]
Through the first gate he led her, and boldly removed the great crown from her head.
Why, O watchman, dost thou remove the great crown from my head?