Topical Encyclopedia Gopher wood is a term mentioned in the Bible in the context of the construction of Noah's Ark. The reference to gopher wood is found in Genesis 6:14, where God instructs Noah: "Make for yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark and coat it with pitch inside and out." (Berean Standard Bible). This is the only occurrence of the term "gopher wood" in the Scriptures, and its exact identity remains a subject of debate among scholars and theologians.Biblical Context The account of Noah's Ark is a pivotal narrative in the Book of Genesis, chapters 6 through 9. It describes God's decision to cleanse the earth of its widespread corruption and violence by sending a great flood. Noah, found righteous in his generation, is chosen by God to preserve human and animal life. The ark, constructed of gopher wood, serves as the vessel of salvation for Noah, his family, and pairs of every living creature. Interpretations and Theories The precise nature of gopher wood has been a topic of speculation due to the lack of additional biblical references or historical records that clarify its identity. Several interpretations and theories have been proposed: 1. Cypress Wood: One of the most common theories is that gopher wood refers to cypress wood. This interpretation is based on the durability and water-resistant properties of cypress, making it a suitable material for shipbuilding. The Septuagint, an ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, translates "gopher wood" as "squared timber," which some have associated with cypress. 2. A Type of Resinous Wood: Another theory suggests that gopher wood could refer to a type of resinous wood, such as pine or cedar, known for its ability to withstand water and decay. The use of pitch to coat the ark further supports the idea that a resinous wood might have been used. 3. A Lost or Unknown Species: Some scholars propose that gopher wood might refer to a species of tree that is now extinct or unknown. This theory acknowledges the possibility that certain plant species mentioned in ancient texts may not have survived to the present day. 4. A Construction Technique: Another perspective is that "gopher" might not refer to a specific type of wood but rather a construction technique or treatment applied to the wood, such as lamination or a particular method of joining timbers. Symbolic and Theological Significance From a theological standpoint, the use of gopher wood in the construction of the ark carries symbolic significance. The ark itself is a symbol of God's provision and salvation, a foreshadowing of the ultimate salvation offered through Jesus Christ. The specific mention of gopher wood, despite its uncertain identity, underscores the divine instructions given to Noah and the meticulous care required to fulfill God's plan. The narrative of Noah's Ark, including the use of gopher wood, serves as a reminder of God's judgment against sin and His mercy towards those who are faithful. It highlights themes of obedience, faith, and divine protection, which resonate throughout the biblical text and continue to inspire believers today. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Gopher WoodGOPHER WOOD go'-fer wood (`atse ghopher): The wood from which Noah's ark was made (Genesis 6:14). Gopher is a word unknown elsewhere in Hebrew or allied languages. Lagarde considered that it was connected with gophrith, meaning "brimstone," or "pitch," while others connect it with kopher, also meaning "pitch"; hence, along both lines, we reach the probability of some resinous wood, and pine, cedar, and cypress have all had their supporters. A more probable explanation is that which connects gopher with the modern Arabic kufa, a name given to the boats made of interwoven willow branches and palm leaves with a coating of bitumen outside, used today on the rivers and canals of Mesopotamia. In the Gilgames story of the flood it is specially mentioned that Noah daubed his ark both inside and out with a kind of bitumen. Strong's Hebrew 1613. gopher -- gopher (a kind of tree or wood)... 1612, 1613. gopher. 1614 . gopher (a kind of tree or wood). Transliteration: gopher Phonetic Spelling: (go'-fer) Short Definition: gopher. ... /hebrew/1613.htm - 6k Library Christ Precious to Believers The Great Flood. The Saint among Sinners Self-Examination The Form and Spirit of Religion Chapter vi Some Gospel Truths Opened, According to the Scriptures; Or, the ... An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources What is gopher wood? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Genesis | GotQuestions.org Would the discovery of Noah's Ark be important? | GotQuestions.org Gopher: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |