Definition: In the six hundredth year of Noahâs life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 7:11. It's a really important and dramatic passage about a huge flood! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Noah lived for six hundred years: This is the starting point – Noah was a very long time ago, during a particularly dry period. Second month, seventeenth day of the month: This tells us when this event happened. It’s a specific date in the story. All the fountains of the great deep were broken up: “Fountains of the great deep” refers to huge rivers and lakes that covered much of the Earth – essentially, a massive flood. The windows of heaven were opened: This is the really striking part. It means that God allowed the sky to open, creating a massive storm or deluge. Putting it all together - What’s happening? Basically, Noah was in the middle of a very difficult time – a drought. When God decided to send a flood, He opened the sky to release this enormous water. It's like a huge cleansing event that washes away everything bad and destructive. Why is this important? This story is considered one of the earliest examples of a divine judgment and a promise of renewal. It’s a reminder that God can be just, powerful, and even vengeful when He sees something wrong. It also shows God's love and mercy by offering a chance for humanity to be saved through his flood. Important Note: This story is in the beginning of the Bible! Before there was humans, it’s a foundational narrative about God’s relationship with humanity and His plan for the world. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "the great deep" refers to? Discuss the significance of the opening of the windows of heaven?