Old Testament
Genesis 6:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Make yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark and cover it inside and out with pitch.
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Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch.
What Genesis 6:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Noah to build an ark using gopher wood, a durable material. The ark is to have different rooms, which suggests a need for organization and preparation. Covering the ark with pitch on both the inside and outside indicates the importance of protection against water. This command highlights God's desire for Noah to take action in the face of impending disaster. The ark symbolizes safety and refuge, a place where life can be preserved. Noah's obedience to this command demonstrates faith and trust in God's plan. By following these instructions, Noah prepares not just for himself but for the future of all living creatures. This moment marks a pivotal point in the story of humanity, showcasing the balance between divine instruction and human responsibility. It reminds us that preparation and faith often go hand in hand, especially when facing uncertain times. Noah's actions serve as a powerful example of how to respond to challenges with diligence and trust.
How to apply Genesis 6:14 to your life
When faced with challenges, consider how you can prepare and take action. Just as Noah built the ark, think about what steps you can take to safeguard your future. Trust in the process and remain faithful to your goals, even when the path seems unclear. Your efforts can lead to safety and hope for yourself and others around you. Remember, preparation is key to overcoming obstacles in life.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Noah's story: God Tells Noah to Build an Ark (Genesis 6:5–22)
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Noah
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Genesis 6:14
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 6:14 mean?
Genesis 6:14 means that God instructed Noah to build a large boat, called an ark, using a specific type of wood known as gopher wood. This command emphasizes the importance of preparation and obedience in the face of an impending flood.
What is the significance of gopher wood in Genesis 6:14?
Gopher wood is mentioned in Genesis 6:14 as the material for building the ark, indicating its durability and suitability for construction. The exact type of wood is uncertain, but its mention highlights the importance of using the right resources for God's instructions.
What does Genesis 6:14 teach about faith and preparation?
Genesis 6:14 teaches that faith involves taking action and preparing for challenges ahead. Noah's obedience in building the ark illustrates how trust in God's guidance can lead to practical steps that ensure safety and survival.
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