How long did it take Noah to build the ark?

Quick answer

Although the Bible does not record how long it took Noah to build the ark, it provides clues, revealing that it took decades. The amount of time it took Noah to build the ark calls us to faithfully follow where God leads and to trust in His divine timing and provision.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible does not specify exactly how long it took Noah to build the ark, but clues suggest it took between 50 to 80 years. Noah was over 500 years old when his sons were born, and in his 600th year he entered the ark, indicating that the construction period was less than 100 years. Noah’s extended effort highlights the importance of remaining faithful to God’s instructions, even during long periods of waiting. We can trust that God is always at work and that He will bring about good.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

The Bible does not tell us precisely how long it took Noah to build the ark, but it does provide us with some clues.

Noah was older than 500 when he fathered Shem, Ham, and Japheth (Genesis 5:32). When Noah entered the ark with his wife, three sons, and daughters-in-law, he was in his 600th year (Genesis 7:6, 11). So, it appears the ark took less than 100 years to build.

If his youngest son was born just a few years after Noah's first son and grew old enough to be married (Genesis 6:18 might indicate that Noah's sons were married at the time God instructed Noah to build the ark), we could estimate that Noah might have been around 520 years old when he received the instruction. This leaves about 80 years for the ark's construction, though the range of time could have been 50 to 80 years in length.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

The amount of time it took Noah to build the ark is not recorded in the New Testament.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

The extended period Noah spent building the ark reveals the importance of continuing to do what God calls you to do and living for Him, even when it takes a long time. Although the exact duration of the ark's construction isn't specified, Noah was committed to following God's command. Even in prolonged seasons of waiting and effort, God is at work. He provides strength, remains present, and is faithful to bring about good for those who believe in Him. We find strength and encouragement as we abide in Him (John 15). By seeking and following the Lord where He leads and trusting in His timing and outcome, we can endure with perseverance and faithfulness.

UNDERSTAND

Building the ark likely took between 50 to 80 years, based on Noah's age and timeline clues.

Noah was over 500 years old when he began working on the ark and was 600 when he entered the ark, indicating the construction was under 100 years.

The lengthy construction period calls us to faithfully walk with the Lord while we trust in His timing.

REFLECT

How can Noah’s dedication to building the ark inspire you to follow God’s guidance in what He has called you to do?

What does trusting in God’s timing look like?

What have you learned about God’s character in moments of waiting?

ENGAGE

There is also an intriguing note in Genesis 6:3, but it does not seem to apply to the amount of time it took Noah to build the ark. It reads: "My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years." Many see this as the amount of time from God's prediction of judgment until the flood. Others view it as the length of time God would allow humans to live. A third view suggests that the flood would take place within 120 years. Based on other dates mentioned in the flood chronology, this third option appears to be the most accurate interpretation.

How can Noah’s commitment to building the ark encourage us to stay faithful during long-term challenges?

What are some ways to support others in trusting God’s timing during prolonged periods of waiting?