Table of Contents
When combining myths from various ancient traditions, such as Sumerian, Biblical, and Greek, the world before the great flood emerges as a time of extraordinary events, larger-than-life beings, and a close connection between gods and humans. The following description synthesizes elements from these traditions to paint a picture of life in that primordial era:
1. A World Filled with Giants and Divine Beings
- Nephilim and Titans: Many myths describe a time when the Earth was populated by giants, often born from the union of gods and humans. In the Biblical tradition, these are the Nephilim, described as “mighty men of old, men of renown” (Genesis 6:4). Similarly, Greek mythology speaks of the Titans, colossal beings who ruled before the Olympian gods.
- Gods Walking Among Men: In many myths, gods and divine beings frequently interacted with humans. In the Sumerian tradition, gods like Enki and Enlil were involved in the affairs of men, guiding and sometimes manipulating them. The Greek gods, too, were known for their direct involvement in human activities, often coming down from Mount Olympus.
2. Advanced Civilizations with Great Knowledge
- Lost Knowledge and Technology: The pre-flood world is often depicted as having advanced knowledge and technology, much of which was lost after the flood. In the Sumerian myths, the city of Eridu is considered the first city, created by the god Enki. It was a place of great learning and was seen as a center of civilization. Some interpretations of these myths suggest that humanity had access to advanced technologies or knowledge that were later lost or destroyed.
- Great Cities and Societies: Ancient texts, such as the Sumerian King List, speak of cities that were centers of power and civilization before the flood. These cities were often ruled by kings who reigned for extraordinarily long periods, suggesting a world where time and life itself operated differently.
3. A World of Hubris and Moral Decline
- Human Corruption and Hubris: Despite the apparent harmony and divine presence, many myths highlight a gradual moral decline. The Bible describes humanity as becoming increasingly wicked, with “every intention of the thoughts of his heart only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5). Similarly, Greek myths talk about the decline from the Golden Age to the Iron Age, where human behavior deteriorated.
- Divine Displeasure: The gods or divine beings grew increasingly displeased with humanity’s arrogance and moral failings. In the Sumerian epic of Atrahasis, the gods decide to send the flood because humans had become too noisy and troublesome. The Greek gods, too, punished humanity for various transgressions, leading to disasters like the flood in the story of Deucalion.
4. Portents of Catastrophe
- Signs and Omens: Many myths speak of signs and omens that preceded the great flood. These could have been natural disasters, strange celestial events, or other anomalies that indicated the impending doom. In the Sumerian myths, there were warnings from the gods, such as the god Enki advising Ziusudra (or Utnapishtim) to build a boat to survive the flood.
