Genesis 6:15

KJV

And this [is the fashion] which thou shalt make it [of]: The length of the ark [shall be] three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits.

KJV (with Strong's)

And this is the fashion which thou shalt make {H6213} it of: The length {H753} of the ark {H8392} shall be three {H7969} hundred {H3967} cubits {H520}, the breadth {H7341} of it fifty {H2572} cubits {H520}, and the height {H6967} of it thirty {H7970} cubits {H520}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is how you are to build it: the length of the ark is to be 450 feet, its width seventy-five feet and its height forty-five feet.

Berean Standard Bible

And this is how you are to build it: The ark is to be 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high.

American Standard Version

And this is how thou shalt make it: the length of the ark three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Unveils God's meticulous architectural blueprint for Noah's Ark, providing the exact length, breadth, and height specifications. This divine command underscores God's absolute sovereignty and detailed foresight in orchestrating salvation amidst impending global judgment, highlighting both the immense scale of the task and the exacting nature of Noah's required obedience as a testament of his faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the dramatic narrative of God's profound grief over humanity's pervasive wickedness, leading to His decision to bring a global flood upon the earth, as vividly depicted in [Genesis 6:5-7](/genesis/6-5-7 "God's Sorrow and Decision to Flood the Earth"). Amidst this impending judgment, Noah alone is singled out as one who "found grace in the eyes of the Lord" ([Genesis 6:8](/genesis/6-8 "Noah Finds Favor with God")), setting the stage for God's specific and detailed instructions for building a vessel of salvation. The preceding verse, [Genesis 6:14](/genesis/6-14 "God's Initial Command to Build the Ark"), introduces the command to construct the Ark from gopher wood with various compartments and to pitch it inside and out, establishing the material and general structure before [Genesis 6:15](/genesis/6-15 "The Ark's Dimensions") provides the critical dimensions. The verses immediately following detail further instructions regarding the Ark's occupants and the covenant God would establish with Noah, emphasizing the Ark's role as the central instrument of divine preservation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, flood narratives were not uncommon, but the biblical account of Noah's Ark stands apart due to its monotheistic framework and the moral justification for the flood. While other cultures might attribute floods to capricious deities, the Genesis account firmly links the cataclysm to humanity's pervasive sin and God's righteous judgment. The concept of a "cubit" (`H520 'ammâh'`) was a standard unit of measurement in antiquity, based on the human forearm, though its precise length could vary slightly by region and period. The construction of a vessel of such immense size, using only ancient technologies, would have been an unprecedented and monumental undertaking, requiring extraordinary faith and labor. This context highlights the unique nature of God's direct intervention and detailed provision, contrasting with human engineering capabilities of the time and underscoring the miraculous element of the Ark's construction and purpose.

* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 6:15](/genesis/6-15 "The Ark's Dimensions") contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Meticulous Planning**, demonstrating that God's actions are not arbitrary but are executed with precise design and purpose, even in judgment and salvation. Secondly, it highlights **God's Judgment and Provision**, showcasing the severity of divine wrath against sin while simultaneously revealing God's merciful provision for a righteous remnant. Thirdly, the verse implicitly emphasizes **Obedience as an Act of Faith**, as Noah's faithful adherence to these demanding and seemingly impossible instructions serves as a powerful example of trust in God's word, a theme later echoed in [Hebrews 11:7](/hebrews/11-7 "Noah's Faith and Obedience"). Finally, the Ark itself becomes a powerful symbol of **Preservation and New Beginnings**, preserving life through a cataclysm to initiate a new chapter for humanity and creation, foreshadowing later acts of divine salvation and new creation, such as those found in [Isaiah 65:17](/isaiah/65-17 "New Heavens and a New Earth") and [Revelation 21:1](/revelation/21-1 "A New Heaven and a New Earth").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **make (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** (`H6213`) This primitive root signifies "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." In [Genesis 6:15](/genesis/6-15 "God's Command to Make the Ark"), it emphasizes that Noah was not merely to *design* or *conceive* the Ark, but actively to *fashion* and *construct* it according to God's precise instructions. It implies the execution of a divine blueprint, highlighting Noah's role as a faithful executor of God's will rather than an independent innovator.
* **ark (Hebrew, _têbâh'_):** (`H8392`) This word, perhaps of foreign derivation, specifically means "a box" or "ark." It is used only two times in the Old Testament: for Noah's Ark and for the basket in which baby Moses was placed ([Exodus 2:3](/exodus/2-3 "Moses in the Basket")). This unique term distinguishes it from typical boats or ships, suggesting a vessel designed for floating and preserving, rather than for navigation or speed. Its box-like nature, emphasized by the dimensions, points to its function as a secure, self-contained refuge.
* **cubits (Hebrew, _ʼammâh'_):** (`H520`) This term refers to a unit of measure, specifically the fore-arm (below the elbow). It represents a standard length used in ancient construction and measurement. The repetition of "cubits" after each dimension (length, breadth, height) underscores the precise, quantitative nature of God's instructions, emphasizing that the Ark's size was not approximate but meticulously defined by divine command.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of":** This opening clause establishes the divine origin and non-negotiable nature of the Ark's design. Noah was not to use his own engineering judgment or traditional boat-building techniques, but was to meticulously follow a divinely revealed blueprint. The phrase "fashion which thou shalt make it of" (literally, "this is what you shall make it") emphasizes the specific and detailed instructions that follow, underscoring God's absolute sovereignty and meticulous planning in His acts of both judgment and salvation.
* **"The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits":** This specifies the primary dimension, indicating an enormous vessel. Given that an ancient cubit is estimated between 18 and 22 inches (approx. 45-55 cm), 300 cubits would translate to approximately 450-550 feet (137-168 meters). This colossal length was essential for the Ark's purpose: to preserve a remnant of humanity and all land-dwelling animal life through a global cataclysm, demonstrating the immense scale of God's provision.
* **"the breadth of it fifty cubits":** This dimension, approximately 75-92 feet (23-28 meters), defines the Ark's width. The ratio of length to breadth (300:50 or 6:1) is remarkably stable for a large vessel designed for stability rather than speed, a fact recognized by modern naval architects. This ratio, divinely ordained, ensured the Ark's structural integrity and ability to withstand the tumultuous waters of the flood.
* **"and the height of it thirty cubits":** This final dimension, roughly 45-55 feet (14-17 meters), specifies the Ark's depth or height. The ratio of length to height (300:30 or 10:1) further contributes to the Ark's stability and capacity. The considerable height would have allowed for multiple decks, maximizing internal volume for living creatures, provisions, and the necessary ventilation, further emphasizing God's foresight in designing a vessel perfectly suited for its unique, life-preserving mission.

#### Literary Devices
[Genesis 6:15](/genesis/6-15 "The Ark's Dimensions") primarily employs **Divine Command** and **Precision/Detail** as its key literary devices. The direct address "thou shalt make it" followed by exact numerical specifications highlights God's authoritative instruction and His meticulous involvement in the plan of salvation. The repetition of "cubits" after each dimension reinforces the **Precision/Detail** of the divine blueprint, emphasizing that the Ark was not a human invention but a divinely engineered vessel. Furthermore, the Ark itself functions as powerful **Symbolism**. It is not merely a large boat, but a tangible symbol of God's judgment against sin and His gracious provision for life. Its immense scale symbolizes the severity of the coming judgment and the extraordinary nature of God's provision, while its box-like structure, designed for floating and preservation, foreshadows the concept of salvation and refuge.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Genesis 6:15](/genesis/6-15 "God's Blueprint for Noah's Ark") profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty and meticulous planning, revealing that His actions, even in judgment, are executed with precise design and purpose. The detailed specifications for the Ark underscore that God's provision for salvation is not arbitrary but perfectly tailored to meet the needs of a fallen world. This divine blueprint serves as a powerful testament to God's foresight and His faithfulness to preserve a remnant, even amidst widespread corruption and impending destruction. It challenges the notion of a distant or disengaged deity, presenting instead a God intimately involved in the mechanics of His redemptive plan, ensuring its success through divine wisdom and power.

* [Hebrews 11:7](/hebrews/11-7 "Noah's Faith and Obedience"): By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
* [1 Peter 3:20-21](/1_peter/3-20-21 "Baptism and the Ark"): Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
* [Luke 17:26-27](/luke/17-26-27 "The Days of Noah and the Son of Man"): And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 6:15](/genesis/6-15 "God's Precise Instructions for the Ark") serves as a profound reminder that God's plans are often meticulously detailed and require our diligent attention and unwavering obedience, even when they seem extraordinary, demand immense effort, or appear counter-intuitive to human wisdom. This passage encourages us to cultivate a deep trust in His divine wisdom and provision, knowing that His designs, though sometimes beyond our full comprehension, are always perfectly suited to accomplish His sovereign purposes for our ultimate good and His glory. Just as Noah faithfully constructed an ark for physical salvation, we are called to build lives of spiritual obedience, trusting that God's specific instructions, revealed in His Word, are the blueprint for our flourishing and for navigating the challenges of life. Our faithfulness in the small, precise details often prepares us for God's larger, transformative works.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might God be calling you to meticulous obedience, even if the task seems overwhelming or illogical from a human perspective?**
* **How does the precision of God's instructions for the Ark affirm His character as a God who is both sovereign and deeply caring about the details of our lives?**
* **What "ark" is God calling you to build today – perhaps a spiritual discipline, a ministry, or a commitment – that requires faith and diligent adherence to His blueprint?**
* **How does Noah's example of trusting God's wisdom, even for a task of unprecedented scale, encourage you to step out in faith in your own circumstances?**

### FAQ
**What is a cubit, and how large was the Ark based on these dimensions?**

Answer: A cubit (`H520 'ammâh'`) is an ancient unit of measurement, typically defined as the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. While its exact length could vary slightly, it is generally estimated to be between 18 and 22 inches (approximately 45-55 cm). Based on these dimensions, the Ark would have been an enormous vessel: approximately 450-550 feet (137-168 meters) long, 75-92 feet (23-28 meters) wide, and 45-55 feet (14-17 meters) high. This makes it comparable in size to many modern cargo ships, demonstrating its immense capacity.

**Why were such precise dimensions given for the Ark, rather than a general instruction?**

Answer: The precise dimensions (`H753 'ôrek'`, `H7341 rôchab'`, `H6967 qôwmâh'`) were divinely given to ensure the Ark's structural integrity, stability, and sufficient capacity to hold all the animals and provisions necessary to survive the global flood. This level of detail demonstrates God's meticulous planning and foresight, ensuring the vessel was perfectly suited for its unique, life-preserving mission. It also emphasizes that the Ark was a divine design, not a human invention, requiring Noah's exact obedience.

**Was the Ark truly capable of surviving a global flood with these dimensions?**

Answer: Yes. Modern naval architects and engineers have studied the Ark's dimensions (a length-to-breadth ratio of 6:1 and a length-to-height ratio of 10:1) and affirmed that these ratios are remarkably stable for a large, box-like vessel designed for buoyancy and stability rather than speed. Such a vessel would have been highly resistant to capsizing and could have effectively ridden out severe storms, confirming God's perfect design for its purpose of preserving life through a global cataclysm.

**What does this verse teach us about Noah's faith and obedience?**

Answer: This verse highlights Noah's extraordinary faith (`H6213 'âsâh'`), as he undertook this colossal and unprecedented construction project based solely on God's detailed instructions. His willingness to build a vessel of such immense scale for an event (a global flood) that had never occurred before demonstrates complete trust and unwavering obedience to the divine command, even when it seemed illogical or impossible by human standards. [Hebrews 11:7](/hebrews/11-7 "Noah's Faith") explicitly commends Noah's faith in preparing the Ark.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Ark, meticulously designed and built according to God's precise specifications in [Genesis 6:15](/genesis/6-15 "God's Blueprint for Noah's Ark"), stands as a profound type of Christ. Just as the Ark was the sole means of salvation and refuge from the overwhelming judgment of the flood, so too is [Jesus Christ the only way to salvation](/john/14-6 "Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life") from God's righteous wrath against sin. He is our ultimate refuge and provision, meticulously prepared by God the Father to preserve all who enter into Him by faith. Through Christ, we are brought safely through the waters of judgment, not by physical means, but by spiritual rebirth, echoing the new beginning for creation after the flood. As [1 Peter 3:20-21](/1_peter/3-20-21 "Baptism and the Ark") suggests, the Ark prefigures baptism, which symbolizes our union with Christ in His death and resurrection, leading to a new life. Just as Noah and his family were "in the ark" for salvation, believers are "in Christ" ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "In Christ, a New Creation")) for their eternal security and new spiritual existence, demonstrating God's perfect plan of redemption through His Son.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 7:20

Fifteen cubits upward did the waters prevail; and the mountains were covered.

Deuteronomy 3:11

For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants; behold, his bedstead [was] a bedstead of iron; [is] it not in Rabbath of the children of Ammon? nine cubits [was] the length thereof, and four cubits the breadth of it, after the cubit of a man.