Biblical Context:
The account of Noah leaving the ark is found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 8 and 9. This event marks a pivotal moment in biblical history, as it signifies the end of the global flood and the beginning of a renewed earth. Noah, his family, and the animals that were preserved in the ark are commanded by God to repopulate and steward the earth.

Scriptural Narrative:
After the floodwaters receded, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. Genesis 8:4 states, "On the seventeenth day of the seventh month, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat." Noah waited for the waters to continue to abate, sending out a raven and a dove to determine if the earth was dry. The dove eventually returned with an olive leaf, indicating that the waters had subsided (Genesis 8:11).

God then instructed Noah to leave the ark. Genesis 8:15-17 records, "Then God said to Noah, 'Come out of the ark, you and your wife and your sons and their wives. Bring out all the living creatures that are with you—birds, livestock, and every creature that moves along the ground—so they can multiply on the earth and be fruitful and increase in number.'"

The Altar and God's Covenant:
Upon exiting the ark, Noah built an altar to the Lord and offered burnt offerings of clean animals and birds. Genesis 8:20 states, "Then Noah built an altar to the LORD. Taking from every kind of clean animal and clean bird, he offered burnt offerings on the altar." This act of worship was pleasing to God, who then made a covenant with Noah and his descendants.

God promised never to destroy the earth with a flood again, establishing the rainbow as a sign of this covenant. Genesis 9:12-13 declares, "And God said, 'This is the sign of the covenant I am making between Me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth.'"

Theological Significance:
The departure from the ark and the subsequent covenant highlight several key theological themes. First, it underscores God's faithfulness and mercy. Despite humanity's sinfulness, God provides a means of salvation and a promise of preservation. The covenant with Noah is a precursor to later covenants, ultimately pointing to the redemptive work of Christ.

Second, the command to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 9:1) reaffirms the creation mandate given to Adam and Eve, emphasizing humanity's role as stewards of God's creation. This stewardship is a divine responsibility that continues to hold significance for believers today.

Symbolism and Typology:
Noah's ark is often seen as a type of Christ, providing salvation from judgment. Just as Noah and his family were saved through the ark, believers find salvation through Jesus Christ. The floodwaters symbolize judgment, while the ark represents God's provision and protection.

The rainbow, as a sign of God's covenant, serves as a reminder of His promises and faithfulness. It is a symbol of hope and assurance that God will uphold His word.

Cultural and Historical Impact:
The account of Noah leaving the ark has had a profound impact on Judeo-Christian thought and culture. It is a narrative that has been depicted in art, literature, and theology throughout the centuries. The themes of judgment, salvation, and covenant continue to resonate with believers, offering insights into God's character and His plan for humanity.