A discussion about the relation between 'Urgeschichte' and 'Vätergeschichte' in the beginning of the book of Genesis. It is shown how the story of the Flood, the concept of Berith (covenant) and especially the figure of Noah bridges the gap between Gen. 1-11 and 12ff. The theological importance of the new start God makes with Abraham is acknowledged, but equally important is the more general, universal opening the editor of the book of Genesis decided to give the book. This has important consequences for the position of Israel as Gods chosen people among the nations.