Genesis 7:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Observe again how the biblical account enhances the sense of awe and elevates the significance of the event.

With my spiritual vision, I beheld paradise. The summits of all mountains seem insignificant compared to its grandeur. The towering waves of the Flood scarcely reached its base; they merely brushed against its foundation before retreating to devastate and overwhelm the peaks of mountains. Only the heel of paradise was grazed by the flood, which obliterated every elevated place.

Let us reflect on the significance of these forty days, a sacred period that marks a new beginning. In the Old Testament, we learn that during Noah's time, a wave of wickedness overwhelmed humanity, leading to a flood that covered the entire earth. This forty-day deluge symbolizes, in a profound way, not merely a flood but rather a baptism. It served as a baptism because it vanquished sin in the wicked while safeguarding the righteousness exemplified by Noah. In a similar fashion, the Lord has established for us a forty-day fast, inviting us to receive heavenly love during this designated time when the heavens open. This divine outpouring of grace can cleanse us through the waters of baptism, much like the ancient flood that washed away iniquity and preserved the righteous. The purpose behind this parallels the days of Noah: for while baptism represents a deluge for the sinner, it offers salvation to the believer. Through the Lord’s cleansing, righteousness is upheld and unrighteousness is obliterated.

This development is illustrated with careful gradualness and intensity, highlighting the significance of the event being portrayed.

The rain, which was one of the factors contributing to the Flood, as previously mentioned (Gen. 7:12), continued for a full 40 days without interruption. By the end of those 40 days, the waters had risen to such an extent that they lifted the ark, allowing it to navigate the vast expanse of the sea, unassisted by a rudder or sails. The Lord was the sole navigator of this vessel, governing its course and ensuring its protection. Noah fully submitted to God's will in every matter and felt secure within the ark as if standing on firm ground. What could he possibly fear? He resided under the care of the Most High, sheltered by the Almighty of heaven.