Old Testament
Genesis 7:13
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On that very day, Noah and his sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, together with his wife and the wives of his three sons, entered the ark.
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In the selfsame day entered Noah, and Shem, and Ham, and Japheth, the sons of Noah, and Noah’s wife, and the three wives of his sons with them, into the ark;
What Genesis 7:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
On the day that the flood was about to begin, Noah and his family took a significant step. They entered the ark, a massive boat built to save them from the impending disaster. This moment was crucial, as it marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Noah, along with his three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and their wives, stepped into the ark together. This act of obedience demonstrated their trust in God's warning about the flood. It wasn't just a physical act; it symbolized their faith and commitment to follow God's plan. The ark represented safety and hope amidst chaos. As they entered, they left behind the world that would soon be transformed. This moment reminds us of the importance of taking action when we believe in something greater than ourselves, especially when faced with uncertainty. It shows that faith often requires us to step into the unknown, trusting that we are guided toward a better future, even when the path ahead seems daunting. Their journey was just beginning, but they were ready to face it together.
How to apply Genesis 7:13 to your life
When faced with difficult decisions, remember Noah's example of faith and action. Sometimes, taking a step forward requires courage and trust in a higher purpose. Surround yourself with supportive people who share your values, and be ready to embrace new beginnings with hope and determination. Your journey may lead to unexpected blessings and growth. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “Noah and his family entered the ark on the day the flood was to begin. This act of obedience marked
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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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Hebron
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 7:13 teach about obedience?
Genesis 7:13 highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. Noah and his family entered the ark as instructed, demonstrating their trust in God's warning about the flood. This act of obedience not only ensured their safety but also marked a pivotal moment in their lives, showing that following divine guidance can lead to protection and new beginnings.
Why is the family structure important in Genesis 7:13?
The mention of Noah's family—his three sons and their wives—underscores the theme of unity and support during challenging times. Their collective decision to enter the ark illustrates the strength found in family bonds and shared faith. This reinforces the idea that facing adversity is often easier when we have loved ones by our side, working together towards a common goal.
What can we learn from Noah's actions in this verse?
Noah's actions in Genesis 7:13 teach us about the significance of taking decisive action in faith. When faced with uncertainty, like the impending flood, Noah didn't hesitate to follow God's instructions. This encourages us to act on our beliefs, even when the future seems unclear, and to trust that our steps will lead us to safety and purpose.
How does Genesis 7:13 relate to the theme of new beginnings?
Genesis 7:13 marks a crucial turning point for Noah and his family as they enter the ark, leaving behind a world destined for destruction. This symbolizes new beginnings, as they embark on a journey that will ultimately lead to the renewal of life on Earth. It reminds us that sometimes, embracing change and stepping into the unknown can lead to transformative experiences and fresh starts.
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