Topical Encyclopedia The term "waterflood" in the Bible is often associated with overwhelming forces, divine judgment, and the power of God. It is a vivid metaphor used to describe both literal and figurative deluges that can either purify or destroy, depending on the context. The imagery of a waterflood is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, symbolizing both God's wrath and His provision.Biblical References: 1. The Great Flood (Genesis 6-9): The most prominent instance of a waterflood in the Bible is the account of Noah's Flood. In Genesis 6:17 , God declares, "And behold, I will bring floodwaters upon the earth to destroy all flesh under the heavens with the breath of life; everything on the earth will perish." This cataclysmic event was a divine judgment against the pervasive wickedness of humanity, yet it also served as a means of salvation for Noah and his family, who were preserved in the ark. The floodwaters covered the earth, purging it of corruption and allowing for a new beginning. 2. Psalm 32:6 : "Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to You while You may be found; surely when great waters rise, they will not come near him." Here, the rising waters symbolize overwhelming troubles or divine judgment. The psalmist encourages the faithful to seek God, assuring them of His protection even amidst life's metaphorical floods. 3. Psalm 69:1-2 : "Save me, O God, for the waters have risen to my neck. I have sunk into the miry depths, where there is no footing; I have come into deep waters, and the flood sweeps over me." This passage uses the imagery of a flood to express a plea for deliverance from overwhelming distress and adversity. The psalmist's cry for help underscores the human experience of feeling engulfed by life's challenges. 4. Isaiah 59:19 : "So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west and His glory from the rising of the sun; for He will come like a raging flood, driven by the breath of the LORD." In this prophetic context, the flood represents God's powerful intervention against His enemies. It conveys the unstoppable force of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of God's righteousness. 5. Matthew 7:24-27 : In the parable of the wise and foolish builders, Jesus uses the imagery of a flood to illustrate the importance of a strong foundation. "The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock." The floodwaters here symbolize trials and tribulations, emphasizing the necessity of building one's life on the solid foundation of Christ's teachings. Theological Significance: In the biblical narrative, waterfloods serve as a dual symbol of judgment and salvation. They are instruments of God's justice, as seen in the account of Noah, where the flood eradicates sin and offers a fresh start for humanity. At the same time, floods are used metaphorically to describe the trials and tribulations that believers may face, with the assurance that God provides refuge and deliverance for those who trust in Him. The concept of a waterflood also highlights the sovereignty and omnipotence of God. Just as He controls the natural elements, He governs the spiritual and moral order of the universe. The imagery of a flood underscores the need for repentance, faith, and reliance on God's grace to withstand the challenges of life and the ultimate judgment to come. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A flood of water; an inundation.Library The Season of Epiphany. The Creator's Joy in his Creation Macbeth and Thunder at Drury Lane Thesaurus Waterflood (2 Occurrences)...Waterflood (2 Occurrences). Job 38:25 Who hath cleft a channel for the waterflood, Or the way for the lightning of the thunder; (See JPS ASV). ... /w/waterflood.htm - 7k Overflow (43 Occurrences) Waterfalls (1 Occurrence) Water-flood (1 Occurrence) Thunderbolt (2 Occurrences) Consuming (26 Occurrences) Cleft (15 Occurrences) Shallow (4 Occurrences) Majesty (67 Occurrences) Resources Waterflood: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Waterflood (2 Occurrences)Job 38:25 Psalms 69:15 Subtopics Related Terms |