ESV Reformation Study Bible – Gen 6:9–9:29
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Gen 6:9–9:29

6:9–9:29 Although stories of a great flood are found in many cultures all over the world, none are so strikingly similar to this account as those of ancient Mesopotamia (e.g., the Gilgamesh Epic and the Atrahasis Epic). There are crucial differences, however. In the Mesopotamian tales, the petty pagan gods bring about a flood to control overpopulation or to quiet the annoying noise of people, and once it comes they are frightened by it. In contrast, the true God sovereignly brings the Flood because of man’s wickedness, and in response to Noah’s sacrifices He pledges never again to destroy the earth. See note 6:22.