In this passage, Gilgamesh is introduced not only as someone with physical power but also as a wise man with deep understanding. In Kovacs’s translation, the phrase “the Deep” emphasizes that he is more than a warrior — he is a sage who has insight into the foundations of life. This challenges the traditional notion of heroism being solely tied to masculinity and strength, instead presenting wisdom as a core heroic trait. CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

This passage captures the divine nature of Sita’s devotion, as she follows Rama—her husband—into the heavens, symbolizing her loyalty and the spiritual journey she undertakes with him. The phrase “most noble name and race” refers to Rama’s royal and divine heritage, positioning him as the ultimate hero, while Sita’s role as his devoted companion further emphasizes her sacrificial and idealized feminine qualities. The image of “pure celestial stream” descending from the Himalayas invokes a sense of divine purity and transcendence, reinforcing her role not just as a wife but as a goddess-like figure.