Topical Bible: The Deluge: Causes of Its Abatement

◄ The Deluge: Causes of Its Abatement ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Deluge, commonly referred to as the Great Flood, is a pivotal event described in the Book of Genesis, chapters 6 through 9. The abatement of the floodwaters marks a significant transition from divine judgment to the restoration of creation. Several key factors contributed to the recession of the waters, as outlined in the biblical narrative.

Divine Intervention

The primary cause of the flood's abatement is attributed to God's direct intervention. Genesis 8:1 states, "But God remembered Noah and all the animals and livestock that were with him in the ark, and He sent a wind over the earth, and the waters began to subside." This verse highlights the active role of God in initiating the process of abatement. The "wind" sent by God is reminiscent of the Spirit of God hovering over the waters in Genesis 1:2, suggesting a re-creation or renewal of the earth.

Cessation of Rain and the Closing of the Fountains

Another critical factor in the abatement of the floodwaters is the cessation of the sources of the deluge. Genesis 8:2 records, "The springs of the deep and the floodgates of the heavens were closed, and the rain from the sky was restrained." The closing of the "springs of the deep" and the "floodgates of the heavens" indicates a divine command over the natural elements, halting the continuous influx of water that had covered the earth.

Gradual Recession of Waters

The narrative describes a gradual recession of the waters, emphasizing the orderly nature of God's creation. Genesis 8:3-5 details this process: "The waters receded steadily from the earth, and after 150 days the waters had gone down. On the seventeenth day of the seventh month, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. The waters continued to recede until the tenth month, and on the first day of the tenth month, the tops of the mountains became visible." This steady withdrawal of water underscores the controlled and purposeful nature of the abatement, as orchestrated by God.

Noah's Role and Observations

Noah's actions and observations also play a part in the narrative of the flood's abatement. After the ark comes to rest, Noah sends out birds to assess the condition of the earth. Genesis 8:6-12 describes how Noah first sends a raven, followed by a dove, to determine whether the waters had receded sufficiently. The eventual return of the dove with an olive leaf in its beak (Genesis 8:11) serves as a tangible sign of the earth's renewal and the abatement of the floodwaters.

Covenantal Implications

The abatement of the floodwaters is not merely a physical phenomenon but also carries significant theological implications. It sets the stage for God's covenant with Noah, where He promises never to destroy the earth with a flood again. This covenant, symbolized by the rainbow, is a testament to God's mercy and faithfulness, as recorded in Genesis 9:11-17.

In summary, the abatement of the Deluge is a multifaceted event orchestrated by divine intervention, the cessation of natural sources of water, and the gradual recession of the floodwaters. It is a testament to God's sovereignty over creation and His commitment to the preservation and renewal of life on earth.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 8:1,2
And God remembered Noah, and every living thing, and all the cattle that was with him in the ark: and God made a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters assuaged;
Torrey's Topical Textbook