Genesis 7:20

The waters rose and covered the mountaintops to a depth of fifteen cubits.

Study Bible

The waters rose
This phrase signifies the overwhelming and unstoppable nature of God's judgment through the flood. In Hebrew, the word for "rose" is "גָּבַר" (gabar), which conveys the idea of prevailing or becoming mighty. This rising of the waters symbolizes the power and authority of God over creation, emphasizing His ability to execute judgment and fulfill His promises. Historically, the flood narrative serves as a reminder of the consequences of human sin and the righteousness of God.

and covered the mountains
The Hebrew word for "covered" is "כָּסָה" (kasah), which means to conceal or hide. This indicates the totality of the flood's impact, as even the highest points of the earth were submerged. The mountains, often seen as symbols of stability and permanence, were not immune to God's judgment. This serves as a powerful reminder that nothing in creation is beyond the reach of God's will. The covering of the mountains also prefigures the idea of baptism, where believers are fully immersed, symbolizing death to sin and resurrection to new life.

to a depth of fifteen cubits
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to the length of a forearm, about 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Thus, fifteen cubits would be approximately 22.5 feet or 6.75 meters. This specific measurement underscores the thoroughness of the flood, ensuring that even the tallest mountains were submerged. The precision of this detail highlights the historical nature of the account, affirming the reliability of Scripture. In a broader theological context, the number fifteen can symbolize rest and deliverance, as it is the sum of seven (completion) and eight (new beginnings). This depth signifies the completeness of God's judgment and the promise of a new beginning for Noah and his family.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to build the ark and preserve life during the flood.

2. The Ark
A large vessel constructed by Noah under God's instructions to save his family and pairs of every living creature.

3. The Flood
A divine judgment sent by God to cleanse the earth of its widespread wickedness.

4. Mountains
The highest geographical points on earth, symbolizing the totality of the flood's coverage.

5. God
The sovereign Creator who judges sin but also provides a means of salvation.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
The flood demonstrates God's absolute control over creation and His righteous judgment against sin.

The Totality of God's Judgment
The waters covering the mountains signify the completeness of God's judgment, leaving no place untouched by His decree.

Salvation Through Obedience
Noah's obedience in building the ark is a model of faith and trust in God's word, leading to salvation.

The Reality of Divine Warnings
Just as God warned Noah of the coming flood, He warns us today through Scripture about the consequences of sin and the need for repentance.

Hope in God's Promises
Despite the severity of the flood, God's promise to preserve Noah and his family offers hope and assurance of His faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the floodwaters covering the mountains in Genesis 7:20 emphasize the seriousness of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does Noah's obedience to God's instructions serve as an example for us today?

3. How can we see the theme of God's sovereignty in both the flood account and other parts of Scripture?

4. What parallels can we draw between the days of Noah and the warnings given in the New Testament about the return of Christ?

5. How does understanding the completeness of the flood's coverage impact our view of God's promises and His ability to fulfill them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6:17
This verse foretells the coming of the flood as God's judgment, connecting to the fulfillment seen in Genesis 7:20.

Psalm 104:6-9
Describes God's control over the waters, echoing the theme of divine sovereignty over creation.

2 Peter 3:6
References the flood as a historical event, emphasizing God's judgment and the promise of future judgment.

Matthew 24:37-39
Jesus compares the days of Noah to the coming of the Son of Man, highlighting the suddenness and totality of God's judgment.