Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’m fascinated by the story of Noah’s Ark and I’m curious about its size. How does the size of Noah’s Ark compare to that of a modern cruise ship? Regards, John Anderson”
Dear John,
Your question invites an intriguing comparison between a biblical structure and modern engineering. Let’s explore the dimensions of Noah’s Ark as described in the Torah and compare them to contemporary cruise ships.
Dimensions of Noah’s Ark:
The Torah provides specific dimensions for Noah’s Ark in Genesis 6:15. It states: “And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits.” In modern measurements, assuming a cubit is approximately 18 inches (the length of a forearm, from elbow to fingertip), this translates to:
- Length: 300 cubits = 450 feet (137 meters)
- Breadth (width): 50 cubits = 75 feet (23 meters)
- Height: 30 cubits = 45 feet (13.7 meters)
Size Comparison with Modern Cruise Ships:
Modern cruise ships vary significantly in size, but many are substantially larger than the dimensions given for Noah’s Ark. For instance:
- A mid-sized cruise ship, like the Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class, is about 962 feet (293 meters) long, which is over twice the length of Noah’s Ark.
- Some of the largest cruise ships in the world, like Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class, measure over 1,180 feet (360 meters) in length, which is more than two and a half times the length of the Ark.
Architectural and Functional Differences:
It’s also important to consider the differences in design and purpose. Noah’s Ark was primarily a survival vessel, designed to float and preserve its occupants, rather than for navigation or luxury. Modern cruise ships, on the other hand, are engineered for comfort, stability, and extended navigation, equipped with advanced technology and amenities.
John, in conclusion, while Noah’s Ark was indeed a large structure for its time, it is dwarfed by the size of many of today’s cruise ships, reflecting the advancements in modern shipbuilding and engineering. The Ark’s dimensions, as described in the Torah, emphasize its role as a divine means of preservation rather than a feat of human engineering.
Warm regards,
Rabbi Joshua
