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The story of Noah's Ark is one of the most well-known and fascinating biblical narratives, which has captured people's imaginations for centuries. Behind this story, there are curious and often lesser-known details that add layers to our understanding of this epic tale. 

Curiosities you didn't know about Noah's Ark

The idea of a man building a huge boat to save his family and various species of animals from the flood is both intriguing and inspiring. Here are 3 fascinating facts about Noah's Ark that you probably didn't know.

1. Dimensions of the chest

When we think of Noah's Ark, many of us imagine a large vessel, but we rarely stop to consider its specific dimensions. According to the biblical account in the book of Genesis, the Ark had impressive dimensions: 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide and 30 cubits high. 

For those unfamiliar with the cubit, it was a common unit of length in ancient times, roughly equivalent to 45 to 52 centimeters. Therefore, calculating these measurements to modern units, the Ark would have been about 135 meters long, 22.5 meters wide and 13.5 meters high. 

These dimensions place Noah's Ark on an impressive scale for its time, capable of housing a significant amount of cargo, including animals of all kinds, as well as provisions for survival during the flood.

2. Building the ark

The construction of Noah's Ark is another intriguing aspect of the story. According to the biblical account, God instructed Noah to build the Ark to save his family and representatives of all species of land animals. 

However, the task of building a vessel of such magnitude was not trivial, especially considering the resources available at the time.

Noah was told to build the Ark using gopher wood, a kind of wood that is not clearly identified today. It is interesting to note that the Hebrew word translated as "gopher" can mean "to cover" or "to coat", indicating that the wood could have been treated or coated for protection against water. 

In addition, Noah received detailed instructions on the design of the Ark, including the internal division into three floors and the inclusion of a window and a door.

The construction of the Ark took a long time; according to some interpretations, it took Noah approximately 120 years to complete the construction according to divine instructions. 

This prolonged period may be indicative of the monumental scale of the project and of Noah's perseverance in the face of difficulties and the disbelief of those around him.

3. The purpose of the ark

As well as serving as a means of preserving life during the flood, Noah's Ark has profound symbolic and theological meanings within the Judeo-Christian tradition. 

Firstly, the Ark is seen as a symbol of salvation and divine protection. While the flood devastated the earth because of human corruption and violence, the Ark represented a place of safety and hope for those who found refuge in it.

It is also often interpreted as a kind of foreshadowing of Christian baptism. Just as the water of the flood brought judgment and purification upon the earth, baptism is seen as an act of spiritual purification and renewal of life in Christ.

Another interesting interpretation is that it can be seen as a precursor to the Jewish temple. Just as the temple was the place where God's presence dwelt among the people of Israel, the Ark was the place where God's presence was manifest during the flood, protecting and preserving life according to God's plan.

History of Noah's Ark

The story of Noah's Ark goes far beyond a simple children's narrative. It offers profound insights into human nature, divine providence and the importance of obedience and faith. 

By exploring its impressive dimensions, the complexity of its construction and the symbolic meanings it carries, we are led to reflect on universal themes such as survival, renewal and redemption.

Although some details of the story may remain shrouded in mystery and debate, the central message of Noah's Ark continues to resonate throughout the ages: the promise of divine protection for those who trust in God and follow his ways. 

May this story continue to inspire and challenge people from all cultures and times, reminding us of the importance of caring for creation and living in harmony with God's will.

See also: Prayer for protection and health during pregnancy

July 5th, 2024