### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Nimrôwd**, represented by `{{H5248}}`, identifies a specific figure descended from Cush. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself is noted as being of probable foreign origin and is consistently associated with the concept of earthly power and prowess.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Nimrod's identity is established genealogically as a son of Cush ([[Genesis 10:8]], [[1 Chronicles 1:10]]). He is distinguished as the one who "began to be a mighty one in the earth" [[Genesis 10:8]]. This reputation is solidified by the description of him as "a mighty hunter before the LORD," a phrase so well-known it became a common saying [[Genesis 10:9]]. Centuries later, the prophet Micah refers to the "land of Nimrod" in a prophecy concerning judgment upon Assyria, indicating Nimrod's lasting legacy as the founder of a significant territory [[Micah 5:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used in the primary verses to define Nimrod's character and legacy:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant): This word is central to Nimrod's identity, describing him as a "mighty one" on the earth and a "mighty hunter" [[Genesis 10:8-9]]. It establishes his status as a formidable figure of strength.
* `{{H6718}}` **tsayid** (the chase; also game... hunter): This term defines Nimrod's primary activity, specifying that his might was demonstrated as a "hunter" [[Genesis 10:9]].
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (to tend a flock... generally to rule... waste): In a prophecy of judgment, this word describes how the land of Nimrod will be "wasted" [[Micah 5:6]], showing a reversal of fortune for the territory he established.
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (a cutting instrument... sword): This word is the instrument of judgment against the land of Nimrod, which will be wasted "with the sword" [[Micah 5:6]].
### Theological Significance
The figure of Nimrod carries significant thematic weight in the scriptures.
* **The Origin of Earthly Might:** Nimrod is presented as the archetype of human power consolidation. He is the first person in the biblical record described as beginning "to be a mighty one in the earth" [[Genesis 10:8]], setting a precedent for subsequent earthly rulers and kingdoms.
* **A Legacy of Worldly Power:** His name becomes synonymous not just with personal strength but with a geographic and political entity, the "land of Nimrod" [[Micah 5:6]]. This links his personal legacy to the rise of powerful nations.
* **Power Subject to Judgment:** While celebrated as a "mighty hunter" [[Genesis 10:9]], his legacy is ultimately invoked in a context of military defeat, where his land is destined to be wasted by the "sword" `{{H2719}}` and delivered from Assyrian control [[Micah 5:6]]. This illustrates the theme that even the greatest of human domains are subject to divine oversight and judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5248}}` Nimrod is more than just an entry in a genealogy. He is a foundational figure representing the emergence of concentrated human power and dominion. His narrative arc, from the first "mighty one" in Genesis to the namesake of a land facing judgment in Micah, serves as a powerful biblical illustration of the nature and limitations of worldly strength.
TRV