Genesis 11:3

And they said to one another, "Come, let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly." So they used brick instead of stone, and tar instead of mortar.

Study Bible

And they said to one another
This phrase indicates a collective decision-making process among the people. It reflects the unity and shared purpose of the group, which is a recurring theme in the early chapters of Genesis. This unity, however, is directed towards a purpose that ultimately opposes God's command to fill the earth (Genesis 9:1). The communal aspect of their decision can be contrasted with the individual obedience seen in figures like Noah.

“Come, let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly.”
The use of bricks signifies a technological advancement for the people of that time. In the Mesopotamian region, where the Tower of Babel narrative is set, natural stone was scarce, prompting the innovation of brick-making. This process involved baking clay bricks to harden them, making them more durable. The phrase suggests human ingenuity and self-reliance, which can be seen as a departure from reliance on God. This technological progress is not condemned in itself but becomes problematic when used to defy divine will.

So they used brick instead of stone
This substitution highlights the adaptability and resourcefulness of the people. In the ancient Near East, stone was often used for construction, but in the plains of Shinar, where the narrative is set, stone was not readily available. The choice to use brick instead of stone underscores the human desire to overcome natural limitations. This can be seen as a metaphor for humanity's attempt to assert independence from God, paralleling the pride and self-sufficiency that led to the fall in Genesis 3.

and tar instead of mortar.
Tar, or bitumen, was a common adhesive in Mesopotamian construction due to its waterproof properties. This choice of materials indicates a sophisticated understanding of building techniques. The use of tar instead of traditional mortar suggests a desire for permanence and security in their construction, reflecting humanity's attempt to create a lasting legacy apart from God. This mirrors the later biblical theme of building on a firm foundation, as seen in Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27), where the true foundation is obedience to God's word.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The People of Shinar
The collective group of people who settled in the land of Shinar, which is often associated with the region of Mesopotamia. They are the builders of the Tower of Babel.

2. The Land of Shinar
A geographical location in the ancient Near East, often identified with southern Mesopotamia. It is the setting for the events of Genesis 11.

3. The Making of Bricks
The technological advancement and communal effort to create bricks for construction, signifying human ingenuity and unity in purpose.

4. The Use of Tar
The choice of tar (or bitumen) as a binding agent instead of traditional mortar, indicating a departure from natural materials and a reliance on human innovation.

5. The Event of Building
The collective decision to build a city and a tower, which ultimately leads to God's intervention and the scattering of the people.

Teaching Points

Human Ingenuity and Pride
The making of bricks and the use of tar demonstrate human creativity and technological advancement. However, it also reflects pride and self-reliance, as the people sought to make a name for themselves apart from God.

Unity and Disobedience
While unity is often seen as positive, the unity at Babel was in direct opposition to God's command to spread out and fill the earth. This teaches us that unity must align with God's purposes.

Divine Intervention
God's response to the building project shows His sovereignty and the futility of human efforts that go against His will. It reminds us that God's plans will ultimately prevail.

Innovation and Dependence on God
While innovation is a gift from God, it should not lead us away from dependence on Him. We must use our skills and resources in ways that honor God and align with His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the decision to use bricks and tar instead of stone and mortar reflect the people's attitude towards God and His creation?

2. In what ways can human innovation and technology become a source of pride and disobedience in our lives today?

3. How does the account of Babel challenge us to evaluate our own unity and collective goals within our communities and churches?

4. What lessons can we learn from God's intervention at Babel about His sovereignty and our need to align with His purposes?

5. How can we ensure that our advancements and achievements are used to glorify God rather than to make a name for ourselves? Consider connections to other scriptures that emphasize humility and dependence on God.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:28
The command to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" contrasts with the people's desire to settle and build a city, highlighting disobedience to God's original mandate.

Exodus 1:14
The use of bricks in Egypt during the Israelites' enslavement echoes the labor-intensive process and human effort seen in Babel.

Acts 2:1-12
The event of Pentecost, where language barriers are overcome by the Holy Spirit, contrasts with the confusion of languages at Babel, showing God's redemptive plan.