Biblical Context:
The account of Noah and his family entering the ark is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative of the Great Flood, as recorded in the Book of Genesis. This event marks the culmination of God's instructions to Noah and the beginning of divine judgment upon a corrupt and violent world. The account is found in Genesis 6:9–7:16.

Noah's Righteousness and Divine Favor:
Noah is introduced as a righteous man, "blameless among his contemporaries," who "walked with God" (Genesis 6:9). In a time when "the wickedness of man was great on the earth" (Genesis 6:5), Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. This divine favor is a testament to Noah's faithfulness and obedience, setting him apart from the rest of humanity.

God's Command to Build the Ark:
God reveals His plan to destroy all flesh due to the pervasive corruption and violence on earth. He instructs Noah to build an ark of gopher wood, specifying its dimensions and design (Genesis 6:14-16). The ark is to be a means of salvation for Noah, his family, and a remnant of the animal kingdom. God's covenant with Noah underscores His commitment to preserve life and establish a new beginning post-flood (Genesis 6:18).

The Gathering of Noah's Family and the Animals:
As the time of judgment approaches, God commands Noah to enter the ark with his family: his wife, his sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and their wives (Genesis 7:1). Noah's obedience is immediate and complete, reflecting his unwavering faith in God's word. Additionally, Noah is instructed to bring into the ark pairs of every living creature, male and female, to preserve their kinds (Genesis 7:2-3).

Entering the Ark:
In Genesis 7:7, Noah, his family, and the animals enter the ark "because of the floodwaters." This act of entering the ark is both a physical and spiritual transition, symbolizing trust in God's provision and protection. The narrative emphasizes that Noah did "all that the LORD had commanded him" (Genesis 7:5), highlighting his role as a faithful servant and steward of God's creation.

The Sealing of the Ark:
Once Noah, his family, and the animals are safely inside, "the LORD shut him in" (Genesis 7:16). This divine sealing of the ark signifies God's sovereign control over the events to unfold and His protection over those within. It marks the beginning of the flood, as the "fountains of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened" (Genesis 7:11).

Theological Significance:
The entry of Noah and his family into the ark is rich with theological implications. It serves as a foreshadowing of salvation through faith and obedience, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. The ark itself is often seen as a type of Christ, offering refuge and deliverance from judgment. Noah's account underscores the importance of righteousness, faith, and the fulfillment of God's promises, even amidst a world deserving of divine wrath.