Flood myths are prevalent across numerous cultures and can be traced as far back as prehistoric ages. The Bible contains the most globally recognized flood narrative: the story of Noah's Ark. In this Hebrew account, a deity sends a flood to obliterate civilization as a form of divine punishment.
In the Genesis account, Noah and his family, deemed the only righteous people on Earth, are instructed by God to build an ark to ensure their survival and that of the animals they gather. They weather the deluge safely. For his righteousness and obedience, God rewards Noah.
Human Behavior
Many interpret this story as a metaphorical reflection of human behavior and its potential outcomes, with the flood exemplifying the gravity of God's justice and the promise of His salvation. The story's themes — divine judgment, life preservation, consequences, renewal, and redemption — are significant in ancient civilizations and religious traditions.
In another light, in the Hebrew Genesis, Yahweh, who created man from the dust of the ground, decides to flood the earth due to mankind's corruption. Yahweh gives Noah instructions to build an ark to preserve human and animal life. After the deluge, God pledges never to send such devastation again.
LOCAL MYTHS
The Philippines has its own myths and legends about floods.
Ifugao.
One Ifugao legend tells of natives praying for rain after a year-long drought that affected their daily lives and plantations. While digging in the dried-up riverbed, they discover a great spring, angering the river gods. Heavy rain ensues, causing a flood that wipes out all humanity except for two survivors, Wigan and Bugan, who repopulate the earth once the waters recede.
Igorots.
In another tale, the Igorots describe a world that was once flat and devoid of mountains. Two sons of Lumawig, the Great Spirit, enjoy hunting but lack suitable places to catch wild game. The older brother suggests causing water to flow over the world, which leads to the formation of mountains.
Bukidnon.
In this landlocked plateau in Northern Mindanao, there is a legend often recounted to children during the rainy season. It tells of a large crab that disturbs marine creatures, causing the sea to overflow and flood the earth. Before this, a wise man has warned the people to build rafts, but only some heed the warning. When the floodwaters come, they survive by tethering their rafts to trees, while the skeptical perish.
Pray for Salvation
Storytelling is a vital part of Philippine culture.
Analyzing these flood stories, a common theme emerges: the redemption of select people and animals. Virtuous individuals survive to repopulate the earth and spread the message of faith and salvation.
In times of calamity and trouble, our faith in God often strengthens, and we pray even more fervently than before.
Christians have great faith in God and He is always listening and wants us to communicate through prayer.
Let us pray everyday for our family and for those who need our prayers the most, not only in times of need.
Our daily supplications bless us all through our lives.
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