"I, Gish, the strong one of the land.

A road which I have never trodden;

... food ... I do not know.

When I shall have succeeded,

I will praise Thee in the joy of my heart,

I will extol the greatness of Thy power."

The masters brought the weapons;

Bow and quiver

They placed in hand.

He took the hatchet.

... his quiver.

... a second time

With his lance in his girdle,

They took the road.

Again they approached Gish!

"How long till thou returnest to Erech?"

Again the elders approached him.

For the road they counselled Gish:

"Do not rely, O Gish, on thy strength!

Provide food and save thyself!

Let Enkidu go before thee.

He is acquainted with the way, he has trodden the road

To the entrance of the forest.

He who goes in advance will save the companion.

Provide for his road and save thyself!

May God, the Light-giver, carry out thy endeavor!

May He make thine eyes see the fulfilment of the word of thy mouth.

May He track out for thee the closed path!

May He level the road for thy treading!

May He level the mountain for thy foot!

During thy night may the word that will rejoice thee

Be conveyed by the angel who guards thee, and may he stand by thee

In thy endeavor!

Like a youth may God establish thy endeavor!

In the river of Huwawa as thou plannest,

Wash thy feet!

Round about thee dig a well!

May there be pure water constantly for thy libation.

Goblets of water pour out to God, the Light-giver!

May the guardian angel take note of it!"

Enkidu opened his mouth and spoke to Gish:

"Since thou art resolved to take the road,

Let not thy heart be afraid, trust to me!

Confide to my hand his dwelling!"

On the road to Huwawa they proceeded.

... were filled.

... they will go with me.

... joyfully.

Upon hearing this word of his,

Alone he levelled the road.

"Go, O Gish, I will go before thee.

May thy Lord go with thee.

May He show thee the road!"

Gish and Enkidu

Knowingly ...