Ziusudra (or Utnapishtim)

Ziusudra, also known as Utnapishtim, is a figure from ancient Mesopotamian mythology, particularly known from the Epic of Gilgamesh. He is a hero who survived a great flood sent by the gods to destroy humanity. Ziusudra built a massive boat to save himself, his family, and various animals. After the flood, the gods granted him immortality as a reward for his piety and survival. His story parallels other flood myths, including Noah’s Ark, highlighting themes of survival, the relationship between humans and the divine, and the quest for eternal life.