In Akkadian mythology Humbaba (Assyrian spelling) or Huwawa (Babylonian) was a monstrous giant who was also the guardian of the Cedar Forest where the gods lived. His face is that of a lion.

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh and Enkidu set out on an adventure to the celestial Cedar Forest to slay Humbaba. Gilgamesh tricks the monster into giving away his seven "radiances" by asking to be his brother in law. When Humbaba's guard is down, Gilgamesh punches him and captures the monster. Defeated, Humbaba appeals to a receptive Gilgamesh for mercy but Enkidu convinces Gilgamesh to slay Humbaba. Enlil, the god who set Humbaba as the forest's guardian, becomes enraged upon learning this and redistributes Humbaba's seven splendors (or "auras") to others.

Like many mythological figures, Humbaba has a small role in the world of video games. He appears under the name Phunbaba in the well-known Final Fantasy VI, in the World of Ruin. Lacking his lion head, he instead takes the form of a large, muscular demon with horns. He is technically an optional enemy, but since defeating him (twice) in the village he attacks is required to regain Terra, most players encounter him.

Category:Sumerian mythology