The Epic of Gilgamesh, Tablet XI

Hidden within the poetic verses of the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the world's oldest religious texts, are indispensable clues to the nature and origin of the world's earliest religious tradition- The Ancient Tradition.  Once you've given Tablet XI a listen, turn your ear to our sister podcast, The Ancient Tradition, where we reveal striking similarities in the ancient record- myths, cosmologies, theologies, and sacred writings- which point to an original, pure religion in deep antiquity.  Is it the true religion?  If so, you are in for the theological adventure of a lifetime.

In this audio recording of the Epic of Gilgamesh, Tablet XI, King Gilgamesh asks Utnapishtim how he found eternal life.  Utnapishtim gives an account of building a boat, stocking it with provisions, and sealing the hatch on the day commanded by the Sun God.  Utnapishtim recounts how, upon surviving the deluge, the god Enlil boarded the boat, touched Utnapishtim and his wife on the forehead and transformed them into gods.   Gilgamesh desires the same for himself.  Utnapisthtim tests Gilgamesh's fortitude by challenging him to go without sleep for a week.  Gilgamesh fails the test.  Unable to conquer sleep, Gilgamesh relents, knowing he is incapable of conquering death.  Utnapishtim tells Gilgamesh of a precious plant at the bottom of the sea capable of restoring youth.  Gilgamesh acquires the plant.  The plant is stolen by a snake.  Gilgamesh returns to Uruk without eternal life.

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