“Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch.”
Here are some key points to consider while studying this verse:
The Command to Build an Ark: God instructed Noah to build an ark. This command came as a result of the wickedness and corruption that had spread throughout the earth, leading God to bring judgment in the form of a flood. Building the ark was essential for the preservation of Noah, his family, and a representative selection of animals.
The Material of the Ark: The verse specifies that the ark was to be constructed using gopher wood. However, the exact nature of gopher wood is unclear, as the term used in the original Hebrew is found only in this passage and its meaning is uncertain. Some scholars suggest it might refer to a specific type of wood, while others propose it denotes a construction method or a process of laminating the wood.
The Structure of the Ark: Noah was instructed to construct compartments, or “rooms,” within the ark. This was to provide separate spaces for different purposes, such as accommodating various types of animals and storage of provisions. The ark was designed to be functional, providing sufficient space and organization for the preservation of life during the flood.
The Application of Pitch: To make the ark watertight and seal the gaps between the wooden planks, Noah was instructed to pitch it both inside and outside. Pitch, a sticky, tar-like substance, served as a protective coating to prevent water from seeping into the structure. The pitch ensured the ark’s integrity and stability during the flood.
Symbolic and Prophetic Implications: While studying this verse, it’s important to recognize the broader theological implications and prophetic symbolism it holds. The ark can be seen as a type or foreshadowing of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Just as Noah and his family were saved from the judgment of the flood through the ark, believers today are saved from the judgment of sin through faith in Jesus Christ, who provides salvation and eternal life.
By studying Genesis 6:14 in its context and considering these key points, we can gain a deeper understanding of the construction of the ark and its significance within the broader biblical narrative.
