UTNAPISHTIM Meaning and
Definition
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Utnapishtim is a fictional character in the Epic of Gilgamesh, which is considered one of the oldest surviving works of literature. The term "utnapishtim" is primarily associated with the ancient Mesopotamian mythological tradition.
According to the epic, Utnapishtim is a wise and immortal man who survived a great flood sent by the gods to destroy humanity. He receives a warning from the god Ea and builds a massive boat, which enables him, his family, and various animals to survive the flood. This story bears striking similarities to the biblical account of Noah's Ark.
Utnapishtim is often regarded as the counterpart of Noah in Mesopotamian mythology. He is depicted as a knowledgeable and god-favored figure who possesses divine wisdom. After the flood, Utnapishtim is granted immortality by the gods, making him one of the few humans to achieve eternal life.
The name "utnapishtim" translates to "he who found life" or "he who found life in distant days," highlighting his unique status as the survivor of the cataclysmic flood. Utnapishtim's story presents moral and existential themes, including the ephemeral nature of human life, the futility of defying the gods, and the yearning for immortality.
In wider usage, "Utnapishtim" may be employed to refer to an individual who has endured immense challenges and possesses great wisdom or exceptional longevity. This term is most commonly encountered in discussions related to ancient mythologies or when comparing various narrative flood stories.
Common Misspellings for UTNAPISHTIM
- ytnapishtim
- htnapishtim
- jtnapishtim
- itnapishtim
- 8tnapishtim
- 7tnapishtim
- urnapishtim
- ufnapishtim
- ugnapishtim
- uynapishtim
- u6napishtim
- u5napishtim
- utbapishtim
- utmapishtim
- utjapishtim
- uthapishtim
- utnzpishtim
- utnspishtim
- utnwpishtim
Etymology of UTNAPISHTIM
The word "Utnapishtim" comes from the ancient Mesopotamian language, particularly from the Epic of Gilgamesh, which is one of the oldest known texts in human history. Utnapishtim was a character in the epic, who survived a great flood and was granted immortality by the gods.
The etymology of the term "Utnapishtim" is complex, and its exact meaning is debated among scholars. The word is composed of two elements: "ut" and "napishtim".
The meaning of "ut" is uncertain, but it is often interpreted as a particle denoting divinity or the divine realm. It may also indicate an association with the heavens or higher powers.
The second element, "napishtim", has various possible interpretations.
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