Utnapishtim directs Gilgamesh to the location of a magical plant that has rejuvenating powers.
Gilgamesh, in his search for immortality, sought and found Utnapishtim, whom they call the Faraway. Utnapishtim said he would tell Gilgamesh a hidden matter, a secret of the gods. Utnapishtim then proceeded to tell Gilgamesh about the flood.
Utnapishtim recounts the flood story in response to a question from Gilgamesh: How did you find eternal life? Utnapishtim's point is that he was granted immortality due to unique circumstances that will not be repeated. It is therefore futile for Gilgamesh to seek eternal life.
In the Epic of Gilgamesh, gods reveal the coming flood to Utnapishtim, a wise man who built an ark to save creations. Gilgamesh learns about the flood through dreams and seeks out Utnapishtim to learn the secret of immortality.
Utnapishtim
Utnapishtim had mixed feelings about Gilgamesh because he saw both the potential for greatness and the flaws in his character. He was impressed by Gilgamesh's determination and courage, but also recognized his arrogance and recklessness. Ultimately, Utnapishtim believed that Gilgamesh had the capacity for growth and wisdom.
Utnapishtim was granted immortality by the gods after surviving the flood, making him the only witness with firsthand knowledge of the event. This allowed him to share the story with Gilgamesh in the Epic of Gilgamesh.
Utnapishtim challenges Gilgamesh to stay awake for six days and seven nights as a test of his worthiness for immortality. However, Gilgamesh falls asleep as soon as he sits down.
The two main characters in the Epic of Gilgamesh are Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, and Enkidu, a wild man created by the gods to challenge Gilgamesh. Their friendship and adventures form the central focus of the epic.
The clothes given to Gilgamesh by Utnapishtim in the Epic of Gilgamesh are described as "new" and "finest" garments, symbolizing a fresh start or rebirth for Gilgamesh. They are meant to signify a transformation or renewal that Gilgamesh undergoes after his journey to seek immortality and his realization of the value of living a meaningful life.
Utnapishtim tests Gilgamesh's resolve by challenging him to stay awake for a week, and later by asking him to search for a special plant that restores youth. These tasks suggest Utnapishtim is testing Gilgamesh's determination and might not have full sympathy for his quest. Additionally, Utnapishtim tells Gilgamesh that seeking immortality is futile, indicating a lack of belief in the purpose of his quest.
In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Utnapishtim.