Talk:Utnapishtim
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Problems with Gilgamesh The Biblical dimensions of Noah's ark (300 long x 50 wide x 30 high in cubits) define a realistic ocean going vessel. In contrast, the Epic of Gilgamesh has an impossible vessel of 120 x 120 x 120 cubits. This 7 storey vessel is structurally challenging and would tumble around in the sea. The proposition that the Biblical account was inspired by the Epic of Gilgamesh is complicated by the inexplicable correctness of Noah's Ark. The proportions closely match a modern ship, giving a near optimal balance of roll stability, hull strength and seakeeping comfort (accelerations)[1] (http://www.answersingenesis.org/home/area/Magazines/tj/docs/v8n1_ArkSafety.asp), the three levels give a workable ceiling height, roof ventilation capacity is adequate, the scale is towards the limit for a timber vessel but not impossible. The obvious improvements of the Biblical account over the Gilgamesh epic can be explained in two ways. Either the author of the Biblical account (attributed to Moses) re-interpreted the Gilgamesh data in the light of Egyptian seagoing expertise (unknown at this scale), or the Biblical flood actually occurred and the Gilgamesh author had access to folklore rather than records. The Biblical account compiled my Moses gives clear indication of referencing earlier works. Hence the date of authorship of Genesis (by Moses) is not the date for the story's origin.
- It seems a bit strange to nitpick the vessel dimensions when there are so many things that make both flood myths physically impossible; unless you take the supernatural into account. The cube shaped Gilgamesh "ark" simply requires one extra miracle from the God/Gods who were watching over Utnapishtim. Making a badly designed boat seaworthy is a pretty small trick compared with conjuring up enough water to cover the entire planet.--D kendall 22:27, 9 Dec 2004 (UTC)
- I'll agree with the previous poster that it does deem a bit much to declare as incontrovertable fact that Gilgamesh is much older than the story of Noah given how sketchy ancient history is and the fact that the story of Noah was likely told orally for some time before it was written down.