Who was Noah in the Bible?

Flood survivor living at the time before the Flood

Noah, as described in the Bible, is a significant figure in the Old Testament and is known for his obedience to God in building the ark to survive the great flood. Here is an exhaustive and definitive Bible dictionary answer from a biblical point of view:

Noah, a Flood survivor, lived at a time before the catastrophic event of the Great Flood. He was an early patriarch, a man of faith, and obedience to God’s commands. Noah is first mentioned in Genesis 5:29, as the son of Lamech and the husband of Naamah, according to some Jewish traditions. He was the father of three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth, who became the ancestors of all humanity after the Flood.

Noah’s story is detailed in Genesis chapters 6 to 9. In Genesis 6:9, it is recorded that Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God. God chose Noah to build an ark to save himself, his family, and pairs of every kind of animal from the impending flood that would destroy the earth due to the wickedness of humanity.

Noah’s obedience to God’s instructions in building the ark, gathering the animals, and entering the ark with his family showcased his trust in God’s plan for salvation. The floodwaters covered the earth for forty days and forty nights, but the ark kept Noah and his family safe. After the flood receded, God made a covenant with Noah, promising to never again destroy the earth with a flood, symbolized by the rainbow.

Noah’s faith and obedience are highlighted in the New Testament as well. In Hebrews 11:7, Noah is commended for his faith in building the ark and thereby condemning the world and becoming an heir of righteousness. Peter also refers to Noah as a preacher of righteousness in 2 Peter 2:5, emphasizing his role in warning the world of the coming judgment.

In conclusion, Noah stands as a model of faith, obedience, and perseverance in the face of adversity. His story serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to those who trust in Him and follow His commands. The account of Noah and the ark is not just a historical event but also a testament to God’s mercy and grace towards those who walk in righteousness.

References:
– Genesis 5:29, 6:8-22, 7:1-23, 8:1-20, 9:1-29
– Luke 3:36
– 1 Chronicles 1:4
– Isaiah 54:9
– Ezekiel 14:14, 14:20
– Matthew 24:37-38
– Luke 17:26-27
– Hebrews 11:7
– 1 Peter 3:20
– 2 Peter 2:5