“And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth.”
This verse is found within the genealogical account of Noah’s descendants, known as the Table of Nations, which is recorded in Genesis 10.
In this chapter, the lineage of Noah’s sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, is detailed, along with the nations that descended from them.
In Genesis 10:8, we encounter Nimrod, who is described as the son of Cush. Cush was one of the sons of Ham, who was one of Noah’s three sons.
The name Nimrod means “rebel” or “we will rebel,” suggesting a negative connotation associated with him.
Genesis 10:9-12 further expounds on Nimrod’s character and accomplishments: “He was a mighty hunter before the LORD: wherefore it is said, Even as Nimrod the mighty hunter before the LORD. And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, and Erech, and Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar. Out of that land went forth Asshur and builded Nineveh, and the city Rehoboth, and Calah, and Resen between Nineveh and Calah: the same is a great city.”
Nimrod is portrayed as a significant figure in the early post-Flood era, credited with establishing several cities in the land of Shinar (later known as Babylonia). He is described as a mighty hunter before the Lord, indicating his prowess in hunting.
However, this description might also imply that he sought personal glory and power, possibly leading to rebellion against God’s plans and authority.
The cities mentioned in association with Nimrod—Babel (Babylon), Erech, Accad, and Calneh—were important centers of early civilization. Babel, in particular, would become infamous later in the Bible due to the story of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9).
It is worth noting that Nimrod’s accomplishments in building cities and establishing a kingdom were not inherently condemned in Scripture. However, the emphasis on his reputation as a “mighty hunter” and the subsequent development of Babel, which leads to the story of the Tower of Babel, suggests a trajectory of human ambition and pride that disregards God’s authority.
The mention of Nimrod in the Bible serves as a reminder of the consequences of human rebellion and the desire for self-glorification. It stands as a cautionary tale against seeking power and greatness apart from God’s purposes and commands.
Overall, Genesis 10:8 and the subsequent verses present Nimrod as a figure of significance in human history, highlighting the development of early civilizations but also indicating the potential dangers of pride and rebellion against God.
