Reflections and Questions on the Flood of Genesis
Reflections and Questions on the Flood of Genesis
The debate of the extent and authenticity of the Genesis flood is by no means close to a conclusion. Theories and assumptions of every kind from all directions of biased beliefs have been analyzed, supported and negated. Reviewing publicized scientific and literary texts of the last decade have, however, shined a bit more light on the issue of Moses’ account in the Pentateuch. Whether biblical or scientific, scholars do not argue the fact that a tremendous natural force of water did splurge into the lands of ancient Mesopotamia. Contrast between these analysis’ begin when measurements are attempted to be placed onto this vast natural disaster. Measuring where the shores of this flood began and ended or even if it had an ending are quite broad, it is debated using terminology of either local or universal ( Wolf 101).
To support the universal flood assumption requires extensive analysis of the book of Genesis. For instance, chapter 7:19-20 says “ all the high mountains under the entire heavens were covered to a depth of at least twenty feet.” How could water cover every high mountain without covering all the land? (Wolf 102). Also in Genesis, God commands Noah to take with him every single living creature. This preparation task would only be necessary if a world wide flood were to occur. Otherwise, the animals of the surrounding lands would survive and prosper. Other literary evidence enlightens an entire Earthly flood considering the size of the ark, which by Genesis’ calculations reaches its maximum of four-hundred and fifty feet long, seventy-five wide, and forty-five feet high. Such a massive ship, according to Wolf, could house thousands of animals and would be excessive if only a local flood were in order. Scriptural and archeological accounts also coincide when God clearly states that the purpose of the flood was to wipe out all of mankind. Looking at the duration of the existence of humans, and archeological dating of remains, man was quite noticeable spread out over a vast continent. A thorough investigation into Biblical data can lead to the conclusion of a global flood.
A paradox exists between the universal...