𒀭𒈹𒂵𒆠𒃲𒆷

aka Angalta; From the Great Above

Descent of Inanna into the Underworld

Author

Unknown

Language

Sumerian

Year

c. 1900-1600 BCE

Country

Mesopotamia

Genre

Epic / Long-form / Standalone Poem

0

📷3 photos

The Descent of Inanna into the Underworld or Angalta is a Sumerian myth that narrates the descent of the goddess Inanna into the Underworld to overthrow its ruler, Ereshkigal. Following the removal of her adornments, she perishes. Enki intervenes indirectly, restoring Inanna to life. Inanna is required to deliver another living being in exchange for her freedom. She selects Dumuzi, who is transported to the Underworld. Responding to the pleas of Geshtinanna, Dumuzi is permitted to remain in the Underworld for only a portion of the year, with his sister assuming his role for the remaining duration.