Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'ark of gofer wood' mean in Genesis 6:14?
A: The 'ark of gofer wood' refers to the large vessel that Hashem commanded Noah to build to survive the flood. According to Rashi, 'gofer wood' may refer to cedar or another durable type of wood, as it needed to withstand the floodwaters. The word 'gofer' is unique to this verse, and our Sages teach that it was chosen for its strength.
Q: Why did the ark need to be covered with pitch inside and out?
A: The pitch (כֹּפֶר - 'kofer') was used to waterproof the ark and protect it from the floodwaters. Rashi explains that the double coating (inside and out) ensured complete protection. The word 'kofer' also hints at atonement, symbolizing that the ark would serve as a refuge for those granted mercy.
Q: What is the significance of the ark having 'rooms' (קִנִּים)?
A: The 'rooms' (or compartments) in the ark were designed to separate Noah's family, the animals, and their food supplies. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 108b) explains that this organization maintained order and prevented chaos during the year-long journey. It also teaches us the importance of structure and planning in fulfilling Hashem's commandments.
Q: How does the command to build the ark apply to us today?
A: Just as Noah was instructed to prepare the ark despite the seeming impossibility of a flood, we learn the importance of faith and action in serving Hashem. The Midrash teaches that Noah spent years building the ark as a way to inspire repentance. Today, we apply this by trusting in Hashem's guidance and preparing spiritually for life's challenges.
Q: Why did Hashem specify the exact materials for the ark?
A: Hashem provided precise instructions to ensure the ark's durability and functionality. The Rambam teaches that divine commandments often include detailed laws to help us fulfill them properly. Here, the specifications also symbolize that salvation comes through following Hashem's exact guidance, not human reasoning alone.
The Command to Build the Ark
The verse (Bereishit 6:14) commands Noach to build an ark (teivah) from atzei gofer (gofer wood). Rashi explains that gofer refers to a type of cedar wood, as it is durable and resistant to water. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 31:10) suggests that this wood was chosen specifically because it would withstand the floodwaters.
Structure of the Ark
The phrase kinim ta'aseh et hateivah ("rooms shalt thou make in the ark") is interpreted by Rashi to mean that the ark should have separate compartments for Noach, his family, and the animals. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 108b) elaborates that these divisions ensured order and prevented chaos during the flood.
Waterproofing the Ark
The instruction to "pitch it within and without with pitch" (v'chafarta otah mibayit umichutz bakopher) is understood by Ramban (Nachmanides) as both a practical and symbolic measure. The pitch (kopher) served as a waterproof seal, but the word kopher also alludes to atonement (kaparah), hinting at the spiritual purification that would follow the flood.
Spiritual Lessons
The construction of the ark teaches the importance of following Divine commandments precisely, even when their full purpose is not immediately clear. The Sforno notes that Noach's meticulous obedience in building the ark demonstrated his complete trust in Hashem's word, setting an example for future generations.