Judy Taylor
[lwptoc]
Introduction: The Biblical Story of Noah and the Ark
The biblical story of Noah and the Ark is one of the most well-known accounts in the Bible. According to the book of Genesis, God saw the wickedness of mankind and decided to cleanse the earth with a flood, sparing only Noah and his family. God instructed Noah to build an ark to preserve himself, his family, and a pair of every kind of animal on the earth. Noah obeyed God’s command and built the ark, bringing clean and unclean animals on board.
The Command to Bring Clean and Unclean Animals
In Genesis 7:2-3, God commands Noah to take with him on the ark “seven pairs of every kind of clean animal, a male and its mate, and one pair of every kind of unclean animal, a male and its mate.” This command is significant because it distinguishes between clean and unclean animals, which Noah was to bring on board in different numbers.
What are Clean and Unclean Animals in the Bible?
The Bible lists specific animals that are considered clean and unclean. Clean animals include cattle, sheep, goats, deer, gazelles, roebucks, and wild sheep. Unclean animals include pigs, camels, rabbits, eagles, vultures, owls, and all kinds of insects. Clean animals were considered suitable for sacrifice and were used in religious ceremonies, while unclean animals were considered impure and could not be eaten or offered as sacrifices.
The Significance of Clean and Unclean Animals
The distinction between clean and unclean animals has religious significance in the Bible. Clean animals were considered pure and acceptable to God, while unclean animals were associated with impurity and sin. The concept of clean and unclean was also used to teach Israelites about personal holiness and separating themselves from sin and impurity.
The Preservation of Species and Diversity
The command to bring both clean and unclean animals on board also had practical significance. By bringing a pair of every kind of animal on board, Noah was preserving the diversity of the animal kingdom and ensuring that all species would survive the flood. This was important for the preservation of the earth’s ecosystem and for future generations.
The Symbolism of Clean and Unclean Animals
Clean and unclean animals also have symbolic significance in the Bible. For example, clean animals are often used to symbolize righteousness and purity, while unclean animals symbolize sin and impurity. The distinction between clean and unclean animals also points to the holiness of God and the importance of obeying his commands.
Preparing for a Post-Flood World
Bringing clean and unclean animals on board was also a way of preparing for a post-flood world. By preserving both clean and unclean animals, Noah was ensuring that the earth would be repopulated with animals that could be used for sacrifice and for food. This was important for the survival and well-being of Noah’s family and future generations.
The Importance of Following God’s Commands
Noah’s obedience in bringing both clean and unclean animals on board is an example of the importance of following God’s commands. By obeying God, Noah was able to preserve his family and ensure the survival of all species of animals. This shows the importance of trusting in God’s plan and following his commands, even when they may seem difficult or unusual.
Lessons to be Learned from Noah’s Obedience
Noah’s obedience in bringing both clean and unclean animals on board teaches us several lessons. It reminds us of the importance of following God’s commands, even when they may seem strange or difficult. It also teaches us about the significance of clean and unclean animals in the Bible, and the importance of personal holiness and separating ourselves from sin.
Conclusion: The Meaning of Noah’s Ark Today
The story of Noah and the Ark is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the importance of obedience. By preserving both clean and unclean animals, Noah ensured the survival of all species and prepared for a post-flood world. Today, we can learn from Noah’s obedience and trust in God’s plan for our lives. We can also remember the significance of clean and unclean animals in the Bible and strive for personal holiness in our own lives.
