Hindu
Manu, the first human, saved
a small fish from the jaws of a larger fish. After hearing the
smaller one beg for protection, Manu kept the fish safe, transferring
it to larger and larger containers as it grew, finally returning
it to the ocean.
Because of this kindness, the fish returned to warn Manu about
an imminent flood and told him to build a boat, stocking it with
samples of every species. After the flood waters rose, Manu tied
a rope to the fish's horn. The fish led him to a mountain and
told Manu to fasten the ship's rope to a tree so that it would
not drift. He stayed on the mountain (known as Manu's Descent)
while the flood swept away all living creatures. Manu alone survived.
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