How Long Did It Take Noah to Build the Ark?
Learn with us how long it took Noah to build the Ark, the Islamic story of Noah’s Ark, his age, message, and faith, highlighted by Fajr Al-Quran Academy.
Among the many awe-inspiring stories in Islamic tradition, the tale of Prophet Noah (Nuh, peace be upon him) and his ark holds a special place.
It is a timeless story filled with patience, divine guidance, warning, mercy, and endurance.
For centuries, Muslims have reflected on Noah’s life as a lesson in devotion and trust in Allah.
Unlike popular interpretations from other religious traditions.
The Islamic perspective offers unique insights into how long it took Noah to build the ark, how he accomplished it, and the deeper spiritual meanings behind this historical event.
Through the lens of Islam, the story of Noah’s Ark is more than a tale of survival.
It is a message of faith, perseverance, and ultimate trust in Allah’s plan.
In this article, we will Explore How Long it took Noah to build the Ark, his mission, faith, and what his story teaches us, brought to you by Fajr Al-Quran Academy.
Why is Noah’s Ark Important?
Noah’s Ark is far more than a wooden ship that survived a mighty flood.
In Islam, it stands as a divine symbol of salvation and obedience.
Noah in Islam was sent by Allah as a prophet to a people deeply entrenched in idolatry and sin.
For 950 years, as the Qur’an states in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:14), Noah called his people to worship Allah alone.
His mission was not only long but marked by rejection and ridicule from his community.
The ark signifies Allah’s mercy and justice.
When the people rejected Noah’s persistent da’wah (invitation to Islam), Allah commanded him to build an ark in preparation for a catastrophic flood.
This vessel was not just a physical structure but a spiritual shelter for those who believed.
In Islamic tradition, it reminds us that guidance from Allah is always available, but only those who submit will find protection.
The ark’s story inspires countless Muslims to stay steadfast in their faith, even in the face of hardship and mockery.
How long did it take Noah to build the Ark?
The question of how long it takes Noah to build the Ark is both fascinating and deeply meaningful in the Islamic tradition.
While the Quran does not specify an exact number of years, Islamic scholars have interpreted that the construction of the Ark may have taken between 40 to 80 years.
This extended period reflects the immense dedication, patience, and obedience Noah had toward fulfilling Allah’s command.
According to Surah Hud (11:37), Allah instructed Noah to:-
“And construct the ship under Our eyes and Our inspiration and do not address Me concerning those who have wronged; indeed, they are [to be] drowned.”
وَٱصۡنَعِ ٱلۡفُلۡكَ بِأَعۡيُنِنَا وَوَحۡيِنَا وَلَا تُخَٰطِبۡنِي فِي ٱلَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوٓاْ إِنَّهُم مُّغۡرَقُونَ
Wasna’il fulka bi-a’yuninaa wa wahyinaa wa laa tukhaa tibnee fil lazeena zalamoo; innahum mughraqoon.
This indicates that every part of the process was guided by divine wisdom.
Noah built the Ark on dry land, which led many from his disbelieving community to mock him.
Yet, his resolve never wavered.
His actions were not based on worldly logic but on deep faith in Allah’s promise.
Did Noah Build the Ark by Himself?
The Quran mentions that Allah instructed Noah to build the ark under divine guidance.
In Surah Hud (11:37), Allah says: “And construct the ship under Our eyes and Our inspiration…” This shows that the construction of the ark was not a human endeavor alone.
Allah guided every step, ensuring that Noah had both the knowledge and the protection necessary to complete such an extraordinary task.
According to Islamic commentators (mufassirun), while Noah may have had some assistance, the focus is primarily on his obedience and dedication.
He built the ark far from any sea or river, which drew the scorn of his people.
They mocked him relentlessly, not understanding that this was a divine command.
The Prophet’s determination to carry out Allah’s will, regardless of public opinion, remains one of the greatest lessons for Muslims today.
So, whether Noah physically built every plank by himself or had support from a few loyal followers, the emphasis in Islam lies in his submission to Allah’s command and unwavering faith.
This lesson is often echoed in Islamic learning environments, including leading institutions like Fajr Al-Quran Academy.
Where stories of the prophets are taught to strengthen spiritual resolve and deepen Islamic studies for kids.
How Old Was Noah When He Built the Ark?
Islamic texts do not specify the exact age of Noah when he began constructing the ark.
However, the Qur’an tells us that he preached to his people for 950 years.
Scholars interpret this to mean that his actual lifespan was even longer than that.
Many Islamic historians estimate that Noah lived for around 1050 years or more, which implies that he was already very advanced in age when the ark was being built.
Despite his old age, Noah’s resolve was unwavering.
In Islamic tradition, age is not seen as a barrier to spiritual productivity or obedience to Allah.
The fact that Noah took on such a monumental task later in life is a clear indication of his strength, fueled by faith.
It inspires Muslims to never give up on their missions, no matter their age or stage in life.
Institution Fajr Al-Quran Academy continues to highlight the value of lifelong dedication to knowledge and faith, just as Prophet Noah exemplified.
How Did Noah Build the Ark?
The construction of the ark was done under divine instruction.
Surah Hud (11:37-38) states: “And construct the ship under Our eyes and Our revelation and do not address Me concerning those who have wronged; indeed, they are to be drowned.”
This verse highlights that Allah Himself guided Noah in every step of the building process.
Islamic traditions describe the ark as a massive structure made from wood.
Possibly from palm trees, and sealed with tar or resin to make it waterproof.
Exact measurements are not detailed in the Qur’an.
Some narrations suggest that it had multiple levels, accommodating humans and animals alike.
The ark was built on dry land, adding to the ridicule Noah faced from his people.
Yet, he remained patient and continued his work, fully trusting in Allah’s plan.
The building process itself took decades.
Some Islamic sources say it took 40 years, while others suggest it could have taken up to 80 years.
These extended timelines illustrate the level of dedication and effort involved.
The ark’s construction was not a quick reaction to impending disaster.
But a long-term project rooted in divine command and spiritual foresight.
What Does Noah’s Ark Teach Us About Allah?
The story of Noah and the Ark reveals several deep truths about the nature of Allah in Islam.
First and foremost, it shows that Allah is All-Knowing and All-Wise.
He warned Noah of what was to come and provided him with the tools and instructions to prepare.
This demonstrates Allah’s mercy and concern for His creation.
The story also showcases Allah’s attribute of Justice.
Despite repeated warnings, those who persisted in wrongdoing faced the consequences.
The flood was not just a punishment; it was a divine reset—a moment where Allah allowed only righteousness to survive and rebuild.
Finally, the ark teaches us that Allah supports those who trust Him.
Noah was old, mocked, and isolated, yet Allah never left him alone.
He gave him victory when it mattered most.
This assurance is vital for every believer.
It reinforces that no matter how overwhelming the world may seem, those who walk with Allah are never truly alone.
In conclusion,
The question “How long did it take Noah to build the ark?” opens the door to an ocean of wisdom in Islam.
Whether it took decades or longer, the story is not just about duration—it’s about dedication.
Prophet Noah’s life is a testament to unwavering faith, resilience in adversity, and the power of divine guidance.
Through the Islamic learning platform Fajr Al-Quran Academy, Muslims of all ages are reminded of these lessons.
Encouraged to walk the path of righteousness, and to build their own “arks” of faith in the face of life’s floods.
