[1153] I.e., according to one version (p. [511]). Another version of this part of the Gilgamesh epic, which, however, is influenced by the tale of Ishtar's visit, is published in Haupt's Nimrodepos, pp. 16-19. In this version Eabani gives Gilgamesh a description of Aralû, which tallies with the one found in the Ishtar tale.
[1154] Text defective. Jeremias' suggestion, "the land that thou knowest," misses the point. The person addressed does not know the land. 'Decay' is Schrader's conjecture (Die Höllenfahrt der Istar, p. 24). See Haupt's Nimrodepos, pp. 17, 40, and Delitzsch's Assyr. Wörterbuch, p. 321, note.
[1155] Lit., 'the one who has entered it.'
[1156] I.e., of the inhabitants.
[1157] The inhabitants.