Home ScienceNaturalHistory Noah’s Ark: A Scientific Puzzle Solved | Understanding Bishop John Wilkins’ Solution
NaturalHistory

Noah’s Ark: A Scientific Puzzle Solved | Understanding Bishop John Wilkins’ Solution

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Noah’s Ark: A Scientific Puzzle Solved

The Challenge

In the 17th century, a time when science and religion were intertwined, naturalists were discovering an ever-expanding array of plant and animal species. This posed a challenge to those who believed in the biblical account of Noah’s Ark. How could all these newly discovered species have fit on the ark?

Bishop John Wilkins’ Solution

Bishop John Wilkins, a prominent figure of the time, took on the task of reconciling this scientific discovery with biblical authority. In his 1668 text “An Essay Towards a Real Character, and a Philosophical Language,” Wilkins proposed a solution to the “Atheistical scoffers” who questioned the truth of Scripture.

First-Ever Biological Definition of “Species”

Wilkins’ key innovation was to develop the first-ever biological definition of “species.” By excluding subspecies and hybrids, such as mules, he was able to significantly reduce the number of animals that needed to be accommodated on the ark.

Categorization and Capacity

Wilkins divided the ark into three stories, assigning each to a specific purpose. The lower story housed the beasts, the middle story their food, and the upper story was divided between birds and their food, as well as Noah’s family and utensils.

Wilkins carefully calculated the dimensions of each story, taking into account the height of the animals, the amount of food required, and the space needed for Noah’s family and belongings. He concluded that each story had sufficient capacity for its designated purpose.

Exclusions and Adaptations

To further reduce the number of animals on the ark, Wilkins excluded turtles, seals, crocodiles, and other creatures that could survive in the water. He reasoned that these animals could fend for themselves during the flood.

Scientific Significance

Wilkins’ solution to the Noah’s Ark puzzle was not only a clever theological argument but also a significant scientific moment. By defining “species” and excluding subspecies, he laid the foundation for modern taxonomy.

Long-Tail Keywords

  • How did Bishop John Wilkins fit all the animals on Noah’s Ark?

    • By developing the first-ever biological definition of “species” and excluding subspecies and hybrids.

  • What was the first-ever biological definition of “species”?

    • A definition that excludes subspecies and hybrids.

  • How did John Wilkins leave out sub-species or hybrids on Noah’s Ark?

    • By defining “species” in a way that excluded them.

  • What animals were left to their own devices on Noah’s Ark?

    • Turtles, seals, crocodiles, and other creatures that could survive in the water.

  • Where can I find the oldest Bible online?

    • This article does not provide information on where to find the oldest Bible online.

  • What is the connection between Thomas Jefferson’s Bible and Noah’s Ark?

    • This article does not mention Thomas Jefferson’s Bible or its connection to Noah’s Ark.

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.