MPV Commentary

Assuaging of the Waters.

God remembered Noah and every living thing that was with him in the ark (Matthew 10:29). The divine purpose behind this catastrophic event had been accomplished, and the world had undergone the necessary changes to become a suitable residence for humanity under a new economy of God's providence.

God made a wind pass over the earth. Although He could have instantly dried up the waters, He employed the agency of a wind (Psalm 104:4), likely a hot wind that rapidly evaporated one portion of the waters into the atmosphere and gradually drained off another through outlets beneath.

The seventh month had arrived, marking the beginning of a new era. The floodwaters rested gently on the mountains of Ararat, also known as Armenia. This mountain range is now called Ara Dagh, with its highest peak reaching 17,750 feet above sea level.

As the waters decreased continually, their return to normal was slow and gradual, taking nearly twice as long as their initial rise. After forty days, Noah's family must have felt an intense longing to see land again and breathe fresh air. It was consistent with faith and patience for them to inquire whether the earth was yet ready.

Noah sent out a raven first, but it remained near the ark because of the smell of carrion. The raven likely perched on the covering, indicating that the earth was not yet habitable.

Next, Noah released a dove, which is naturally inclined to return to its abode. However, she did not find any dry land and returned to the ark. This process was repeated several times until the dove brought back an olive leaf in her beak, providing conclusive evidence that the surrounding hills were clear of water.

After this, Noah sent out the dove again, but it never returned. These results demonstrate God's wisdom and prudence in guiding all the movements of the bird for Noah's instruction and to revive the hopes of his household.

Noah waited for seven more days before removing part of the ark's covering to survey the earth around him. For about two months, he remained within his appointed abode until receiving explicit permission from God. We should be attentive to Providence's guidance in every step of our journey through life.