Gallu

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Gallu, also called gallas (Akkadian gallû; Sumerian gal.lu), were demons of the ancient Mesopotamian Underworld. They hauled unlucky people off to the underworld. They were one of seven devils in Babylonian belief that could be appeased with a lamb sacrificed at their altars.

In stories about Inanna, she is chased by gallu demons after being escorted from the Underworld by Galatura and Kuryara. In the Descent, these demons are said to know no food, no drink, eat no flour offerings, and drink no libations. They never enjoy marital pleasures and never have sweet children to kiss. They snatch a son from a man’s knee and cause a bride to leave the house of her father-in-law.

The word gallu can also refer to a dangerous, implacable human adversary.