Genesis 7:20 (KJV)

What does Genesis 7:20 mean?

Genesis 7:20 says that the floodwaters rose to a height of fifteen cubits above the highest mountains, completely covering them. This verse emphasizes just how deep and overwhelming the flood was during Noah’s time, leaving no mountain peak uncovered.

In this part of the story, the narrator describes the extent of the flood as Noah, his family, and the animals are inside the ark. The detail about the waters reaching fifteen cubits above the mountains shows that the flood was not just a local event but covered even the tallest landforms. This sets the scene for the total destruction described in the flood narrative.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 7:20

• "Cubit" (אַמָּה, ’ammah): This is an ancient measurement, roughly the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, usually estimated at about 18 inches (45 centimeters). Knowing this helps readers picture the depth—fifteen cubits would be about 22 feet (6.7 meters).
• "Prevail" (גָּבַר, gavar): This word means to become strong or mighty. Here, it highlights that the waters were not just present, but forcefully rose and dominated the landscape, overtaking even the mountains.
• "Covered" (כָּסָה, kasah): This word means to conceal or hide. The mountains were not just touched by water but were completely hidden beneath it, stressing the thoroughness of the flood.

Why Genesis 7:20 matters

• Genesis 7:20 clarifies that the flood was deep enough to submerge even the highest mountains, countering any idea that it was a shallow or partial flood.
• The verse emphasizes the totality and seriousness of the judgment described in the flood story, showing that nothing on land escaped the waters.
• By specifying the measurement, Genesis 7:20 connects to earlier verses about the ark’s size, helping readers understand why such a large vessel was necessary for survival.