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Written by Nozomi Osanai, A Comparative Study of the Flood Accounts in the Gilgamesh Epic and Genesis explains the relationship between the similar, yet distinct, flood accounts found in the Gilgamesh Epic and the book of Genesis. Why is this a concern? The author states:
It is indispensable for Christians to have faith in the authority of the Bible. Without trusting the Bible, no one can have confidence for one's salvation and sanctification. Needless to say, it is an important thing for a pastor to proclaim the trustworthiness of the whole Bible. Today, Christians who do not believe the Bible as the truth, or who cannot distinguish the true and false are increasing in number. Especially, Genesis is regarded as a mere myth by some Christians. However, if someone loses his faith in one part of the Bible, it will be difficult to believe other parts of the Bible. Therefore, it is important for the authority of the Bible to investigate the theory that the Flood account in Genesis was derived from the Gilgamesh Epic. Some Christians may weaken or lose their faith because of this theory. It is fatal for Christians to lose faith in the authority of the Bible. Thus, it is evident that there is need for examining the relationship between the flood accounts of the Gilgamesh Epic and Genesis in order to distinguish the true and the false and to demonstrate that the Epic cannot be used to deny the authority of the Bible.
Comparing the flood stories in the Gilgamesh Epic and Genesis, one is impressed with the numerous similarities between the two accounts.
The Sumerian story of Ziusudra, the Akkadian Atrahasis Epic, and the Gilgamesh Epic are the renowned flood accounts written in the Ancient Near East, in addition to the Genesis account.
It is important to compare the differences in these two flood accounts in order to examine their relationship.
An examination of ethical considerations in the Gilgamesh Epic and the Genesis flood accounts.
In the Gilgamesh Epic, the survivors are Utnapishtim, all of his family and kin, and the craftmen (XI 84–85), and yet their exact number is not mentioned.
The source of the flood, the duration of the flood, and the structure of the ark in the flood accounts are examined for scientific reliability.
An examination of the internal consistency of the flood accounts on the basis of the magnitude of the flood and the test flights.
Examines the flood accounts in light of secular history, including ancient man's theology, the record of the descendants of the survivors, the various flood traditions, and the search for the ark.
After examination, the Genesis account of the flood is verified as the historically valid flood account.
Answers in Genesis is an apologetics ministry, dedicated to helping Christians defend their faith and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ effectively. We focus on providing answers to questions about the Bible—particularly the book of Genesis—regarding key issues such as creation, evolution, science, and the age of the earth.