Tradition / Region: Mesopotamian Mythology, Iraqi Mythology
Alternative Name: –
Category: Demon
The Myth
The Alû is a terrifying spirit from Akkadian and Sumerian mythology associated with nightmares, sickness, fear, and the underworld. It belongs to a class of malevolent beings connected to the Utukku demons and was believed to wander during the night searching for victims.
Ancient descriptions portray the Alû as a strange and unnatural being without a mouth, lips, or ears. It attacks sleeping people, overwhelming them with terror while they lie helpless in bed. Some traditions say the Alû presses itself upon the chest of its victim like a heavy garment, leaving the person unable to move or cry out.
The demon was feared for causing unconsciousness, illness, and states resembling coma or sleep paralysis. Mesopotamian texts describe it appearing alongside other dark spirits such as the Gallu, Lilu, and ghostly Etimmu, all associated with disease, curses, and torment.
Ancient incantations describe the Alû entering the body of the sick and filling it with poison, fear, suffering, and evil influences. It was believed to attack both physically and spiritually, afflicting humans with nightmares and wasting illnesses simply for its own cruel amusement.
The Alû eventually became one of the best-known night demons of Mesopotamian folklore, representing unseen terror, oppressive sleep, and supernatural affliction during the darkness of night.
Sources
Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Alû. In Wikipedia. Retrieved May 10, 2026, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al%C3%BB