GEN583 There are two types of good Jews, both of them righteous.  However, one type of righteous Jew has no impact upon his environment, while the other righteous Jews, the charismatic or leadership personality, can influence many Jews to become good and do good, using peer pressure for a positive purpose.  God purposely wanted Noah to build the ark for one hundred twenty years (until he planted the trees, cut them down, and so on), in order that all the people in the world would ask him what he was doing. When he would explain to them about their sins and future punishment of the flood, the hope was that he might be able to induce them to repent.  Thus, it was crucial that they see the ark’s construction.  Genesis Rabbah 1:2.  Note: This midrash as described not found at citation.  [See also, Genesis Rabbah 30:7 – AJL]  AMEMEI 217-8