The Flood Tablet: Part of the Epic of Gilgamesh

Overview

• The Flood Tablet is part of the renowned Epic of Gilgamesh.
• Originates from King Ashurbanipal's library in Nineveh, a collection that included scientific information, myths, and legends.
• The Epic of Gilgamesh is the longest piece of literature in Akkadian language and was widespread across the ancient Near East.

Content of the Eleventh Tablet

• Describes Gilgamesh's meeting with Utnapishtim, a character with a role similar to Noah in the Hebrew Bible.
• Utnapishtim was forewarned by the gods about a great flood.
• He built a boat, loaded it with possessions, family, animals, and craftsmen.
• Survived the six-day flood and landed on Mount Nimush.
• Released birds (dove, swallow, raven) to find land; the raven did not return, indicating the waters receded.

Historical Significance

• This narrative is an Assyrian version of the Old Testament flood story.
• Identified by George Smith in 1872 at The British Museum.
• Smith's discovery caused great excitement due to its biblical parallels.

Additional Resources

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