Genesis 7:18 Meaning and Explanation
“And the waters prevailed, and were increased greatly upon the earth; and the ark went upon the face of the waters.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Waters grow ever greater until the ark is carried on the water's surface, with water everywhere.
The Context of Genesis 7:18
Waters completely overcome the earth, with the ark drifting on the surface.
What Does Genesis 7:18 Mean?
The verb prevailed conveys overwhelming dominance. The waters do not merely cover the earth; they overpower it completely. Every landmark, valley, and hill submits to the rising deluge. The earth as humanity knew it—with distinct geography and fixed landmarks—ceases to exist under the uniform expanse of water.
The ark went upon the face of the waters shows the ark's freedom and buoyancy. No longer anchored to ground, it floats upon an unbounded ocean. The phrase face of the waters suggests the waters form a new surface, a new world beneath the sky. The ark navigates this new, terrifying reality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 7:18
What does Genesis 7:18 mean?
Waters grow ever greater until the ark is carried on the water's surface, with water everywhere.
What is the context of Genesis 7:18?
Waters completely overcome the earth, with the ark drifting on the surface.