Biblical Figures – Noah and the Ark

1. The Meaning of Salvation Through Baptism in the Story of Noah’s Ark

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that Noah’s Ark is a clear symbol of salvation through baptism, for God used the water of the flood to cleanse the earth from evil, just as baptism cleanses the human being from sin and grants a new beginning with God.

2. Faith Amid Mockery and Rejection

The Pope describes how Noah remained steadfast in his faith despite the mockery of those around him, believing in God’s promise of salvation. He continued building the ark for many years with active faith, and this became the only path for the salvation of himself and his family.

3. The Flood as an Image of Orthodox Baptism

The Pope likens the flood to baptism: just as the old world disappeared through water and a new one emerged, so through baptism the old person is buried and the new person rises in union with Christ.

4. Obedience and the Work of the Holy Spirit

The obedience of the animals to Noah reflects the work of the Holy Spirit who gave him authority and wisdom, indicating the submission of creation to God’s will when a person walks in obedient faith.

5. The Symbolism of the Dove and the Olive Branch

The return of the dove with an olive branch symbolizes the work of the Holy Spirit who grants peace and renewal after salvation, marking the beginning of a new life with God.

6. The Teaching of the Orthodox Church on the Sacrament of Baptism

His Holiness affirms that baptism is not a mere ritual, but the true sacrament of salvation because it is a real participation in the death and resurrection of Christ, where the believer receives a new birth and a holy life.

7. The Spiritual Message

From Noah’s Ark, we learn that true faith—even in the midst of mockery—is the path to salvation, and that baptism is the passage from death to life, from corruption to holiness, through our union with the risen Christ.

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