What is the story of The Great Flood in the Bible?

The story of The Great Flood in the Bible is one of the most well-known and iconic tales in religious history. Found in the book of Genesis, chapters 6-9, the story recounts the catastrophic event where God decided to cleanse the earth of evil by sending a massive flood to destroy all living creatures. The story is centered around the protagonist, Noah, and his family, who are chosen by God to build an ark and survive the deluge.

According to the narrative, God looked down on the earth and saw how corrupt and wicked mankind had become. He was grieved by the violence and sin that had overtaken the earth, and decided to bring judgment upon humanity through a flood. However, there was one man, Noah, who found favor in God's eyes. God spoke to Noah and instructed him to build an ark to save himself, his family, and a selection of animals from the impending disaster.

Noah obediently followed God's instructions and diligently built the ark according to the precise specifications given to him. The ark was to be made of gopher wood, coated inside and out with pitch, and measured 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high. It had three decks and various rooms to house Noah, his family, and the animals that would be saved from the flood.

As the ark was nearing completion, God instructed Noah to gather two of every kind of animal, male and female, to be taken on board the ark to preserve their species during the flood. Noah did as he was told, and at the appointed time, all living creatures entered the ark, along with Noah, his wife, his sons, and their wives.

For forty days and forty nights, rain fell upon the earth, and the floodwaters rose, covering even the highest mountains. All living creatures outside the ark perished in the flood. The ark floated on the waters, keeping Noah, his family, and the animals safe from harm.

After the floodwaters receded, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. Noah sent out a raven and a dove to see if the waters had subsided, and eventually, the dove returned with an olive leaf in its beak, signaling that the earth was once again becoming habitable. Noah and his family emerged from the ark, and God made a covenant with them, promising never to destroy the earth by flood again.

The story of The Great Flood is a powerful reminder of God's judgment, mercy, and faithfulness. It serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of sin and the importance of obedience and faith in God. The rainbow, which God set in the sky as a sign of his covenant with Noah, continues to be a symbol of hope and promise for humanity, reminding us of God's enduring love and protection.