Role+in+History+and+Themes

Noah's Ark is a symbol of judgement and salvation. G-d vowes that He will never again destroy the earth because "...man's heart is evil from his youth." This has contributed to the shaping of the United States in particular because Puritans and settlers of the colonies, such as the preacher John Edwards, commonly stated that the intentions of man were evil. These perspectives were commonly voiced throughout history and have been part of various historical documents ( i.e. Sinners in the Hands of an Angry G-d). G-d also told Noah that he and his sons could kill and eat the animals of the earth, as long as they have been drained of their blood. This along with other various reasons can help explain why eating meat is so common and socially accepted.  The flood represents a cleansing of the human race by wiping the wicked people off the earth. It is an example of God preserving the righteous ( Noah’s family) and of God’s vengeance being great upon those who anger him. The flood is the rebirth of the world and the world is said to be more fertile for Noah’s family because they were faithful to God. This goes along with the theme of those who honor God will be rewarded. The symbols of this story are the flood, the rainbow, fertile ground. The flood represents the cleansing of the Earth and God’s vengeance. The rainbow is a symbol for God’s covenant with Noah. Fertile land represents the prosperity people will have if they honor and obey God. The motif of covenants is in the story and is a recurring symbol for God’s promises to his people.
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