Old Testament
Genesis 6:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God gives Noah specific instructions for building the ark, emphasizing the importance of ventilation and access.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Put a roof on it with an 18-inch opening along the top for air. Put a door in the side, and build three decks — lower, middle, and upper.
A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God gives Noah specific instructions for building the ark, emphasizing the importance of ventilation and access. The 18-inch opening at the top allows fresh air to circulate, which is crucial for the animals and people inside. The door on the side provides an entry point, ensuring that Noah and his family can enter and exit easily. The ark is designed with three decks: lower, middle, and upper, which suggests a well-thought-out structure that can accommodate various needs. This careful planning reflects God's attention to detail and His desire for Noah to succeed in this monumental task. The ark is not just a boat; it is a sanctuary for life during a time of great upheaval. By following these instructions, Noah demonstrates his faith and obedience, trusting in God's plan for survival. This passage highlights the balance between divine guidance and human action, showing that preparation and faith go hand in hand in facing challenges ahead. Noah's commitment to building the ark serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of following through on our responsibilities.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 6:16 to your life
Just as Noah followed God's instructions meticulously, we too can benefit from being attentive to the guidance we receive in our lives. Whether it's in our personal goals or relationships, preparation and careful planning are essential. Trusting in a higher purpose can help us navigate our own challenges with confidence and clarity. Remember, every step counts towards achieving our goals and fulfilling our responsibilities. Stay committed to your path.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 6:16 mean?
Genesis 6:16 describes God's instructions to Noah for building the ark, highlighting the need for ventilation with an 18-inch opening at the top and a side door for access. The verse also specifies that the ark should have three decks, indicating a well-planned structure for the safety of Noah, his family, and the animals.
What is the significance of the window in Genesis 6:16?
The window mentioned in Genesis 6:16 serves as a crucial ventilation point for the ark, allowing fresh air to circulate inside. This detail emphasizes the importance of maintaining a livable environment for those aboard during the flood.
What does the three decks in Genesis 6:16 represent?
The three decks in Genesis 6:16 represent a thoughtful design that accommodates different needs within the ark. This structure suggests that Noah's ark was not only a means of survival but also a sanctuary for various forms of life during the flood.
How does Genesis 6:16 reflect Noah's faith and obedience?
Genesis 6:16 reflects Noah's faith and obedience by showing how he followed God's detailed instructions for building the ark. Noah's commitment to these guidelines demonstrates his trust in God's plan for survival amid the impending flood.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
Unlock the full Genesis summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Genesis — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 50 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Genesis summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.