Aralu

   In Babylonian myth Hades, ruled over by Allatu or Ereshkigal, queen of the underworld, and by Nergal. A somewhat depressing reflection of the upper world, those who entered it being doomed to remain for ever in the Stygian gloom, to live on mud and dust. In the Gilgamesh Epic there would appear to be a superior abode for those slain in batle, who lie on couches and drink pure water. It was customary to provide food and drink for the dead so that they should not have to wander about in search of nourishment. For further details See Ishtar’s visit in search of Tammuz. It was also known as Meslam and Sekhet-Aaru.