A summary of the biblical flood narrative describes a catastrophic flood sent by God to cleanse the world of human wickedness. This deluge, according to the Book of Genesis, covered the entire Earth, wiping out all life except for Noah, his family, and pairs of every animal species aboard the Ark. The narrative details the Ark’s construction, the flood’s duration, and the eventual receding of the waters, culminating in God’s promise never to destroy the world in such a manner again, symbolized by the rainbow.
This account holds significant theological and cultural weight. It explores themes of divine judgment, human fallibility, and the possibility of redemption. The story serves as a foundational myth for many cultures, appearing in various forms across different traditions. Its enduring presence reflects its exploration of fundamental questions about humanity’s relationship with the divine and the consequences of sin. Historically, the flood narrative has been interpreted literally, allegorically, and metaphorically, prompting discussions about morality, environmentalism, and the nature of divine intervention.