The First Rainfall in History

In this study, I argue that, according to the J/non-P primeval narrative, the Flood was the first rainfall in history. To make this case, I first conduct a close reading and analysis of the agricultural conditions in J’s antediluvian world and consider their connection to Yahweh’s initial plans on earth. I then argue that controlled, seasonal rainfall is, in J, a delayed, ad hoc, and quasi-accidental creation. Next, I suggest that this reading is consistent with a characterization of Yahweh that drives J’s primeval history: a miscalculating and anxious deity, chronically unable to predict the consequences of his actions, improvises under new circumstances, trying to both treat his creatures fairly and maintain his superiority over them. In the process, Yahweh unintentionally creates the basic elements of human existence. Finally, I consider the compositional implications of these findings, arguing that the Flood must be an original component of J’s primeval history.