How large was the Ark of Noah, and how did it compare with modern vessels as to size and capacity?

July 31st 2014 | 38464 views 

The Bible (Genesis 6:15) gives the dimensions as follows: Three hundred cubits long, fifty cubits broad and thirty cubits high. 

The length of the cubit is variously estimated. The modern cubit is 18 inches, linear measure; the sacred cubit of the Jews is 21.88 inches. According to the latter, the ark was 547.3 feet long, 91.2 feet wide and 54 feet high. The capacity, 2,730,782 cubic feet. Tonnage, 81,042. 

It is impossible, however, to do more than merely to estimate the dimensions as no one can be absolutely sure as to the length of the cubit by which the ark was constructed.  It provided plenty of room for Noah and his family and all the 244 species of animals, taken in,  together with all supplies needed for the one-year voyage. The design has been found in actual practice to yield the best results for safety and storage. 

 

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