Iron Sharpens Iron

As I read this week’s passage, I was struck by the distinct dynamic between Enkidu and Gilgamesh. Each possessed longing for an equal. They wanted to be challenged and were not content with an easy life.

I think the scripture, “As iron sharpens iron,
    so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17 NIV), best describes their comradery.

Once Enkidu learned about civilization and Gilgamesh’s prideful oppression, he wanted to challenge Gilgamesh’s strength. As they grappled and Gilgamesh eventually bested Enkidu, they gained respect for one another and became friends. Their friendship was built on the fact that they respected their individual experiences and strength.

Gilgamesh was challenged by Enkidu’s outside perspective and this encouraged him to leave on a quest and make a name for himself outside of Uruk.

The friendship between these two men reminded me that a strong friendship is best when both friends are challenging one another. A close friend will not allow you to make bad decisions (or at least what they perceive to be bad decisions), and they will spur you on to greater things. Even when two strong ideals clash, such as Enkidu and Gilgamesh’s disagreement over how they dealt with Humbaba, the conversations that follow can refine us to have a new perspective of the world, and I find that more valuable than Gilgamesh’s quest for glory.

Do you think they became friends quickly because of their ability to truly challenge one another? 

P.S. I commented on Kayla and Sophia’s posts.