Epic of Gilgamesh
The Epic of Gilgamesh, reimagined in modern times, concludes in 2020 with the emergence of COVID-19, symbolizing humanity’s confrontation with mortality, resilience, and unity.
In this retelling, Gilgamesh is a representation of humanity's unyielding quest for immortality, power, and meaning. Over centuries, humanity achieves remarkable advancements—technological, scientific, and cultural—but grows increasingly disconnected from nature and the delicate balance of life.
As Gilgamesh once sought the secret of eternal life, modern humanity strives for perfection: endless progress, mastery over disease, and dominion over the Earth. Yet, as in the ancient epic, the hubris of this pursuit becomes clear. COVID-19, like the flood sent by the gods in the original tale, arrives as a humbling force, revealing the fragility of life and the interconnectedness of all beings.
In this modern epic's conclusion:
The Pandemic as the Flood: COVID-19 sweeps across the globe, not as divine wrath but as a natural reminder of balance and mortality. The virus forces humanity into introspection, mirroring Gilgamesh's existential reckoning after the death of Enkidu.
The Quest for Survival: Governments, scientists, and communities come together in a frantic search for solutions, much like Gilgamesh sought the plant of eternal life. However, the pandemic reveals that no single cure can grant immortality—only collective effort and wisdom can ensure survival.
The Ultimate Truth: Just as Gilgamesh learns that immortality lies not in defying death but in creating enduring legacies through love, connection, and stewardship, 2020 teaches humanity the value of compassion, unity, and humility in the face of adversity.
The epic closes with humanity standing at a crossroads, reminded that the true "city" they build—like Uruk in Gilgamesh’s time—must be founded on principles of care, balance, and respect for all life. COVID-19 becomes the modern symbol of humanity’s shared struggle, resilience, and hope for a better future.
This retelling transforms the timeless themes of The Epic of Gilgamesh into a narrative of global awakening, redefining what it means to endure and thrive in the modern age.
With love, in love and for love,
Yeshua Ben Yosuf
THE I AM
