The answer is: Gopher wood

Gen 6:14 - There is no other mention of this type of wood in the Bible and it's identity is uncertain.

When diving into the story of Noah's Ark, one can't help but feel a wave of curiosity wash over. What exactly is "gopher wood"? It's like discovering an ancient mystery wrapped in a riddle, since it shows up only in Genesis during the account of Noah building the massive vessel to save his family and pairs of every animal species from a great flood. There’s no definitive conclusion; some scholars speculate it could refer to cypress, cedar, or even a type of pine, based on the types of wood commonly available during ancient times.

Another fascinating aspect of the ark’s construction to consider is its specificity and divine measurements, laid out by God in breathtaking detail. The dimensions indicate that this was no ordinary boat—it was an engineering marvel for its time, emphasizing a form that echoed safety, stability, and purpose.

Looking deeper into the symbolism woven through the narrative, the ark represents a fresh start and divine protection. Just as the Hebrew word for “ark” (teva) can hint at a basket, it’s a reminder of vulnerability and safeguarding life itself, much like how Moses was saved in a basket on the Nile.

Everyone loves a good parallel! Do you remember the stories of rescue vessels? Think of the stories of life preservers—the symbolic ‘arks’ in our modern world where different communities come together and forge safety amid tumultuous waves. It promotes a spike of hope that, like Noah, everyone can find an ark in their own lives.