The Flood Of Gilgamesh

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Utanapishti & Noah: A Comparative Analysis

In the Epic of Gilgamesh the story of Utanapishtim is very similar to the story of Noah in the Holy Bible. In both stories the God(s) saw the wickedness in man and intended to destroy them. The God(s) favored one man in both stories who had similar characteristics. Both were very noble and God(s) fearing men. Utanapishtim and Noah were both given the same instructions by their God(s).
In the story of Noah, God saw all that was evil in the world and wanted it destroyed. He however found favor in Noah and warned and ordered him to build a boat (ark).
As God observed how bad it was, and saw that all man kind was vicious and depraved, he said to Noah, “I have decided to destroy all mankind; for the earth is filled with crime because of man. Yes, I will destroy mankind from the earth. Make a boat from resinous wood, sealing it with tar; and construct decks and stalls throughout the ship. (Genesis 6:12-14)
In the story of Utanapishtim the Gods were going to destroy the city of Shuruppak and all of mankind. The Gods found favor in Utanapishtim and warned him to build a boat.
O man of Shuruppak, son of Ubartutu: Tear down the house and build a boat! Abandon wealth and seek living beings! Spurn possessions and keep alive living beings! Make all living beings go up into the boat. (Tablet XI; Line 23-27)
Noah built the boat (ark) exactly as God wanted and did all that God had commanded him to do. (Genesis 6:22). Utanapishtim also did as the Gods had command him and built a boat. (Tablet XI; Line 32-34) When the day came God instructed Noah to take on the boat his family, himself and all that God considered to be righteous. He also told him to bring all animals in pairs, except for the ones he had chosen for food and sacrifice (Genesis 7:1-4). Utanapishtim also took his family and whatever else he had (silver, gold). He also put all animals and the craftsmen. (Tablet XI; Line 76-81)...