Old Testament
Genesis 7:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, on the seventeenth day of the second month, on that day all the springs of the great deep broke open, and the windows of the heavens were opened.
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In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.
What Genesis 7:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, a significant event occurred that changed everything. On the seventeenth day of the second month, the earth experienced a powerful upheaval. The deep springs beneath the ground burst forth, releasing vast amounts of water. At the same time, the skies opened up, pouring down rain like never before. This moment marked the beginning of a great flood, a divine response to the corruption and violence that had spread across the earth. Noah, who had been warned about this impending disaster, had been preparing for years. He built an ark to save his family and pairs of every animal. This story reminds us of the importance of faith and obedience, even when the future seems uncertain. It shows how God can intervene in the world in dramatic ways, reshaping life as we know it. Noah's experience teaches us about trust and preparation in the face of challenges, encouraging us to listen to guidance and act accordingly, even when it seems difficult.
How to apply Genesis 7:11 to your life
Reflect on how you respond to challenges in your life. Are you prepared for unexpected changes? Like Noah, consider what steps you can take to be ready for the future. Trust in guidance and act with faith, even when the path is unclear. Your actions today can shape your tomorrow significantly.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Into the Ark (Genesis 7:1–16)
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Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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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 7:11 mean?
Genesis 7:11 describes the moment when the flood began, highlighting the breaking open of the deep springs and the opening of the heavens to release rain. This event signifies a dramatic divine intervention in response to human corruption.
What is the significance of the great deep in Genesis 7:11?
The great deep refers to the underground water sources that burst forth during the flood, symbolizing the overwhelming power of God's judgment. It emphasizes the extent of the flood's impact on the earth.
What does the phrase 'windows of heaven' mean in Genesis 7:11?
The 'windows of heaven' refers to the skies opening up to release heavy rain. This phrase illustrates the extraordinary nature of the flood, as it was not just a natural event but a divine act.
What event does Genesis 7:11 describe?
Genesis 7:11 describes the beginning of the great flood during Noah's time, marking a pivotal moment when water surged from both the earth and the sky, leading to widespread destruction.
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