Story of Noah

Summary

The Story of Noah recounts the great flood sent by God to cleanse the earth of wickedness and Noah's role in preserving life. Finding Noah to be a righteous man, God instructed him to build an ark and bring aboard his family and pairs of every living creature. The flood covered the entire earth for forty days and nights, destroying all life except those on the ark. When the waters receded, Noah released a dove that returned with an olive branch, signaling dry land. God established a covenant with Noah, symbolized by the rainbow, promising never again to destroy the earth by flood.

Biblical Reference

Book(s): Book of Genesis

Chapters/Verses: Genesis 6-9

Artworks Depicting This Story

Sort by:

Story of Noah

Paolo Uccello Fresco c. 1447

Fresco depicting scenes from the Story of Noah in the Chiostro Verde (Green Cloister), demonstrating Uccello's fascination with perspective.

Story of Noah

The Flood

Michelangelo Fresco 1508-1509

Completed in 29 days. The scene shows the devastating flood waters rising as people desperately seek safety. The father carries the body of his drowned son—a powerful image of loss and divine judgment. One of the central narrative panels on the Sistine Chapel ceiling.

The Flood