Genesis 6:16 - Divine blueprint for salvation

The Window (Tzohar) in the Ark

The word צֹהַר (tzohar) is interpreted in multiple ways by our sages. Rashi (Bereshit 6:16) explains that some say it was a window to let in light, while others say it was a precious stone that provided illumination. The Midrash Tanchuma (Noach 5) supports the latter view, stating that the tzohar was a luminous gem, ensuring light even during the flood's darkness. This aligns with the principle that Hashem provides the means for salvation alongside the challenge.

Dimensions and Structure of the Ark

The phrase "אֶל־אַמָּה תְּכַלֶנָּה מִלְמַעְלָה" ("to a cubit shalt thou finish it above") is explained by Ramban (Bereshit 6:16) as referring to the roof's slope, narrowing to one cubit at the top to allow rainwater to run off. The Ibn Ezra adds that this design prevented the ark from being top-heavy, ensuring stability during the flood.

The Door's Placement

The instruction "וּפֶתַח הַתֵּבָה בְּצִדָּהּ תָּשִׂים" ("the door of the ark shalt thou set in its side") teaches that the entrance was on the side rather than the top. Rashi notes that this was a practical measure to avoid flooding when the door was opened. The Midrash Aggadah (Bereshit 6:16) suggests this placement symbolized humility—entering sideways, not from above, reflecting Noach's righteous but imperfect stature compared to Avraham.

The Three Stories of the Ark

The command "תַּחְתִּיִּם שְׁנִיִּם וּשְׁלִשִׁים תַּעֲשֶׂהָ" ("with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it") is expounded upon in the Talmud (Sanhedrin 108b):

• Lower story (תַּחְתִּיִּם): For waste and animals.
• Second story (שְׁנִיִּם): For Noach, his family, and food storage.
• Third story (שְׁלִשִׁים): For the birds and clean animals.

The Zohar (Noach 59a) adds that these levels correspond to the three spiritual worlds—Asiyah (action), Yetzirah (formation), and Beriah (creation)—hinting at the ark as a microcosm of divine order.