Hebrew and Australian Interpretations of Noah and the Ark
While some interpretations of Noah and the Ark deal with the number of days that the flood covered the land, others pay attention to what led to such destruction. Some cultures believe it was an overpopulation of the earth, while others believe that it was punishment for leading a wicked life. Below, you will learn of the beliefs surrounding this religious story in regards to the Hebrew and Australian people.
Hebrew
Although, the Babylonian version of Noah and the Ark deals with a quick solution to solve overpopulation, the Hebrew version of the tale pertains with humans being punished for all of the sins they committed. It is said that Noah was 600 years old when the rain began to fall from the sky, resulting in floods that continued for 40 days and 40 nights. After 150 days passed, the waters began to recede. On the seventh month, the ark that Noah built was perched on top of the mountains of Ararat. By the 10th month, the floodwaters began to lower, whereas the first day of the month brought about the sight of the mountaintops.
By the end of the 40 days, Noah peered through the windows of the ark and decided it was time to test the outside. Opening his windows, he sent a raven to find land, but it was unsuccessful. He waited a bit and then sent a dove out, but it had returned as well. He waited seven more days and then let loose a second dove, who returned by the evening, carrying an olive leaf back to the ark. The next week that the dove was sent out, it did not make its way back to the ark. Noah took this as a sign that it was safe to venture out from inside the ark. It took one year and 10 days, before Noah, his family and all the creatures within the ark, took their first steps outside. At this time, Noah, sacrificed a few clean animals and birds to God. This pleased God and he gave his word that he would never destroy another living thing again.
Australian
Australian interpretations of the flood are centered on the “Dreamtime flood, where the “Ark Gumana” served as a vessel for Noah, the Aborigines and all the animals. The ark floated upon the flood waters, moving towards the south, where it finally rested in the area of Djilinbadu, which is a flood plain, located close to the Barbwire Range and Worral Range. If you ever have a chance to travel to this site, you will be able to explore many interesting aspects of the story. It is believed that the “white man” claimed that the ark landed in the Middle East, but Aborigines believe that this was a falsehood used to keep them from following their word.