The story of the Flood (MCQ)

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, the gods decide to destroy humanity because people had become too noisy and disruptive. Enlil, the god of the air, plans a great flood to wipe out all life. However, Ea, the god of wisdom, secretly warns Utnapishtim, a righteous and wise man, about the coming disaster. Ea tells him to build a huge, cube-shaped boat with many compartments to save himself, his family, and representatives of all living creatures.

Utnapishtim follows the instructions carefully, gathering food, animals, and his family. When the flood begins, it rains for six days and six nights, and the waters rise, covering the earth and destroying everything. Eventually, the boat comes to rest on Mount Nisir. To check if the waters have receded, Utnapishtim releases a dove, a swallow, and then a raven; the raven does not return, showing that the land is dry.

After leaving the boat, Utnapishtim offers a sacrifice to the gods. The gods smell the sweet aroma and regret their decision to destroy humanity. Enlil, though initially angry, is impressed by Utnapishtim’s obedience and wisdom. As a reward, Utnapishtim and his wife are granted immortality, living forever beyond the mortal world.

The story highlights themes of human survival, obedience to the gods, wisdom, and the search for immortality. It is also one of the earliest recorded flood myths, with similarities to later stories such as Noah’s Ark in the Bible.