1 Chronicles 1:10

And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be mighty upon the earth.

And Cush {H3568} begat {H3205} Nimrod {H5248}: he began {H2490} to be mighty {H1368} upon the earth {H776}.

Kush fathered Nimrod, who was the first powerful ruler on earth.

Cush was the father of Nimrod, who began to be a mighty one on the earth.

And Cush begat Nimrod; he began to be a mighty one in the earth.

Commentary

Context

First Chronicles begins with extensive genealogies, tracing humanity from Adam through the patriarchs, serving to establish the historical continuity and identity of Israel, especially for a post-exilic audience. These lists confirm the lineage and heritage of the people, connecting them directly to God's original creation and covenant promises. Verse 10 introduces Nimrod within the lineage of Noah's son, Ham, through Cush. This meticulous record highlights significant figures, even those who might not be directly in the line of covenant promise, but who played a notable role in early human history after the Flood, starting with Adam in 1 Chronicles 1:1.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Emergence of Power: Nimrod stands out in these early lists because he is not merely named but described: "he began to be mighty upon the earth." This phrase immediately sets him apart, signifying the emergence of powerful, influential leaders in the post-Flood world.
  • Early Kingship and Dominion: His might suggests an early form of kingship or dominion, a stark contrast to the more communal structures often implied before this period. It highlights the development of human power structures and leadership beyond simple family units.
  • Human Initiative: The phrase "began to be mighty" implies a deliberate exertion of power and influence, marking a significant shift in human societal development where individuals began to accrue significant earthly authority.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "mighty" is gibbor (ื’ึผึดื‘ึผื•ึนืจ), which carries connotations of a strong man, a warrior, a hero, or a champion. In other contexts, it can also suggest a powerful leader who asserts dominance, sometimes even a tyrant. The use of "began to be" indicates a process of acquiring or demonstrating this power, emphasizing Nimrod's active role in establishing his authority.

Cross-References and Connections

The most detailed account of Nimrod is found in the book of Genesis, where he is described as a "mighty hunter before the Lord" (Genesis 10:8-10). This connection solidifies his reputation as a formidable figure. While 1 Chronicles 1:10 focuses on his early display of power "upon the earth," Genesis expands on his role in establishing early kingdoms and cities, including Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh in the land of Shinar.

Practical Application

Nimrod's story, though brief here, serves as a reminder of the emergence of human power and dominion in the post-Flood era. It underscores the Bible's realistic portrayal of human history, acknowledging the rise of strong individuals and the development of political structures. For believers, it also subtly points to God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers, even those who "began to be mighty upon the earth." It invites reflection on how power is wielded and its potential for both construction and oppression in human societies, a theme echoed throughout biblical narrative as seen in the lives of many kings and rulers.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 10:8 (1 votes)

    And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth.

  • Genesis 10:12 (1 votes)

    And Resen between Nineveh and Calah: the same [is] a great city.

  • Micah 5:6 (0 votes)

    And they shall waste the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in the entrances thereof: thus shall he deliver [us] from the Assyrian, when he cometh into our land, and when he treadeth within our borders.