Instructions God Gave Noah for Building the Ark
The story of Noah and the ark is one of the most well-known accounts in the Bible, found in Genesis chapters 6–7. It emphasizes God’s justice, human wickedness, and divine salvation. Central to this story are the detailed instructions God gave Noah for constructing the ark, a vessel that would preserve Noah, his family, and representatives of the animal kingdom from the impending flood.
1. The Divine Command
God chose Noah because he was righteous and blameless among his contemporaries (Genesis 6:9). God then issued a specific command:
“Make yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with pitch.” (Genesis 6:14)
This directive established both the material and the structure of the ark.
2. Materials: Gopher Wood and Pitch
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Gopher Wood: While the exact species is debated, “gopher wood” was chosen for its strength and durability. The text emphasizes a material that could withstand immense water pressure and time submerged in the floodwaters.
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Pitch: God instructed Noah to cover the ark inside and out with pitch, a tar-like substance. This waterproofed the ark, ensuring that it would not leak and could safely carry Noah, his family, and the animals.
3. Dimensions of the Ark
God provided precise measurements, reflecting the importance of careful obedience:
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Length: 300 cubits
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Width: 50 cubits
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Height: 30 cubits
Note: A cubit is generally considered about 18 inches (45 cm), making the ark roughly 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.
These dimensions show that the ark was a massive vessel, large enough to house Noah’s family and a vast number of animals. The proportions also suggest it was designed for stability, preventing it from capsizing in the turbulent floodwaters.
4. Structure and Compartments
God instructed Noah to divide the ark into rooms or compartments, providing separate spaces for different species of animals and supplies. This design allowed for organization, sanitation, and the ability to care for animals during the long period aboard the ark.
Additionally, Noah was instructed to make a roof with an opening, a “window” or “covering,” to allow light, ventilation, and eventual exit (Genesis 6:16).
5. Entrance
God specified the entrance on the side of the ark. This may have served practical purposes, such as protection from waves and storms, and ensured a controlled entry point for Noah and the animals.
6. Animals and Provisions
While not part of the construction instructions, God provided guidance on how to populate the ark:
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Clean animals: Take seven pairs of each, including birds (Genesis 7:2–3).
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Unclean animals: Take one pair of each.
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Food: Noah was to gather food for his family and all animals, ensuring their survival during the flood.
This directive reflects God’s foresight and concern for the sustainability of life.
7. Purpose of Specific Instructions
The detailed nature of God’s instructions shows several key themes:
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Obedience: Noah’s salvation depended on following God’s commands exactly.
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Faith: The construction of a massive ship on dry land required immense faith in God’s word.
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Preparation: The instructions emphasize planning, foresight, and care in the preservation of life.
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Divine Sovereignty: Every detail, from materials to dimensions, reflects God’s control over creation and the flood.
Conclusion
God’s instructions to Noah for building the ark were precise, practical, and divinely inspired. They included the choice of material (gopher wood), waterproofing (pitch), specific dimensions, interior compartments, a roof opening, and a side entrance. Following these instructions faithfully, Noah built the ark and preserved humanity and animal life during the flood.
The story of the ark serves as a timeless lesson on obedience, faith, and the importance of heeding God’s guidance, even when it seems extraordinary or challenging.