The answer is: God

Gen 7:16

In the story of Noah’s Ark, we vividly witness the blend of divine intervention and human circumstance. When Genesis 7:16 tells us God closed the ark door, it symbolizes much more than a simple act; it represents a crucial moment of judgment and salvation. Picture this: after years of constructing the giant ark and enduring the skepticism of neighbors, Noah finally gathers his family and a plethora of animals from every corner of creation. Once everyone is safe inside, God Himself seals them in—what a powerful image of protection!

Interestingly, the act of the ark's door closing highlights a key theme in many ancient stories—the boundary between divine life and human chaos. In ancient Near Eastern literature, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh, we find similar themes where gods intervene to preserve life amidst overwhelming disaster.

Furthermore, it’s intriguing to think of the ark not merely as a vessel of wood, but as an early symbol of refuge and the preservation of creation. It teaches us about hope, endurance, and the importance of stewardship over nature. The fact that God took the initiative to close the door suggests a foundation of care—those inside were to partake in new beginnings after the deluge.

Moreover, this story echoes the idea that sometimes, life’s greatest challenges can become gateways to renewal; just as the closed door behind Noah ushers into a new world post-flood, we too often find opportunities for growth amid circumstance.