FloodGilgameshNoahLiterature

How Similar Is the Gilgamesh Flood to Noah's Story?

Compare the Mesopotamian flood story with Genesis—see the archaeological and textual overlaps.

Timeline Focus: 1700 BCE

The Surprising Reality

When archaeologists unearthed the Epic of Gilgamesh in the 1800s, they were stunned by a flood story with striking parallels to Noah.

🤔The Context Question

But here's what most people don't realize: the Mesopotamian flood legend predates Moses but preserves details remarkably close to the biblical narrative.

📚What We Know

Tablet XI of the Gilgamesh Epic describes a divine flood, an ark, birds sent to find land, and a mountain landing. Scholars debate dependence, but the shared structure is clear. Understanding this requires comparing texts on the app's ancient literature timeline.

Explore the Full Context

Jump to 1700 BC and see exactly how Mesopotamians told their flood story—discover how it compares to Genesis.

Explore Interactive Timeline & Map

See the complete historical context with our interactive map and timeline

🔗Related Topics

artifact

Epic of Gilgamesh

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person

Noah

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📖Biblical References

📜Genesis 6–9

Scripture references supporting this historical context