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Rethinking Genesis 1–11: Gateway to the Bible is unavailable, but you can change that!

Genesis 1-11 contains some of the best-known stories in the world. To modern Westerners they may look like no more than entertaining tales that children can enjoy, but modern adults cannot take seriously. However, when read in the context of the ancient Orient, Genesis 1-11 looks very different. It turns out to be a truly revolutionary document. In retelling the history of the ancient world, it...

certainly the best known. The myth begins by mentioning his role as priest in Ea’s temple at Eridu, where he offered sacrifice every day. He also went fishing to feed Ea. By cursing the South Wind and thereby breaking its wing, Adapa offended the gods and was summoned to heaven. Ea warned Adapa not to drink the water or eat the food that would be offered in heaven or he would die. Adapa duly follows this advice and is laughed at by the god Anu, who lived in heaven, because the water and food would have