The first Flood story differed from the second in one major way related to the animals. It assumed the ritual division of clean from unclean animals (cf. Leviticus 11), which related to their use as sacrifices as well as food. Therefore, this story said the Lord (Heb. Yahweh) told Noah to save seven pairs of clean animals, so that some could be sacrificed as soon as he left the Ark (cf. Genesis 8:20-22), but just two pairs of unclean animals.

• What we’re calling “narrative two” said Noah was “moral” in what is now Genesis 6:9 (the original Bible manuscripts did not have chapter and verse divisions). “Narrative one” described Noah with the same word in today’s reading. The use of this same word in both ancient stories showed that this was one key lesson the story taught. In today’s world, what are some of the primary ways God calls you to be a “moral” person, relating to others as God would have you relate?
• In a summary statement, verse 5 said, “Noah did everything the Lord commanded him.” Do you think this was just about boat building, or was it about a broadly different approach to life with God? What does it mean, or would it mean, for you to do “everything the Lord commands” you to do in 2014? How can you better know, love and serve God today?