Chapter 14, When the Gods Fled from Earth Summary and Analysis

Sitchin recounts archeological finds indicating local flooding in Mesopotamia from 4,000 B.C. to 2,800 B.C., but because of its importance in the Bible and mentions in ancient texts, Sitchin insists on a massive, global flood. He refers to an earlier Sumerian flood story, whose hero is named Atra-Hasis. In it, Enlil becomes upset at man's procreation and decides to destroy mankind with disease, but Enki interferes and stops him. Then, Enlil decides on drought and famine, which lasts for years, finally resulting in cannibalism. Enki finally decides to help. He foments rebellion and clandestinely breaks the imposed famine. Enlil is furious and has a third plan. A terrible flood is coming, and he calls on the gods not to warn the humans but to let them die.

Enki, circumventing...