I opened a hole so as to let the light fall upon my face,
And dumbfounded, I sat down and wept.
Tears flowed down my face.
I looked in all directions,—naught but sea.
But soon the waters began to diminish.
After twelve double hours[971] an island appeared,
The ship approached the mountain Nisir.
The name given to the first promontory to appear is significant. Nisir signifies 'protection' or 'salvation.' The houseboat clings to this spot.
At this mountain, the mountain Nisir, the boat stuck fast.
For six days the boat remains in the same position. At the beginning of the seventh day, Parnapishtim endeavors to ascertain whether the waters have abated sufficiently to permit him to leave the boat.