Topical Bible: Hunting by Nimrod

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Introduction

Nimrod is a prominent figure in the early chapters of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Genesis. He is often associated with the concept of hunting, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. As a descendant of Noah, Nimrod's legacy is intertwined with the post-Flood world and the establishment of early human civilizations. His reputation as a "mighty hunter" has sparked various interpretations and discussions among biblical scholars and theologians.

Biblical References

The primary biblical reference to Nimrod is found in Genesis 10:8-12, which states: "Cush was the father of Nimrod, who began to be a mighty one on the earth. He was a mighty hunter before the LORD; so it is said, 'Like Nimrod, a mighty hunter before the LORD.' His kingdom began in Babylon, Erech, Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar. From that land he went to Assyria, where he built Nineveh, Rehoboth-Ir, Calah, and Resen, which is between Nineveh and the great city of Calah."

Nimrod as a Mighty Hunter

The phrase "mighty hunter before the LORD" has been subject to various interpretations. In the ancient context, hunting was not only a means of survival but also a demonstration of strength, skill, and leadership. Nimrod's prowess as a hunter likely extended beyond the pursuit of animals, symbolizing his ability to conquer and rule over people and territories. The mention of his hunting "before the LORD" suggests that his actions were notable and recognized in the divine realm, though interpretations differ on whether this was in a positive or negative light.

Nimrod's Kingdom and Influence

Nimrod is credited with the establishment of some of the earliest and most significant cities in Mesopotamia, including Babylon and Nineveh. These cities would later become centers of power and culture in the ancient world. His role as a city-builder and ruler indicates that his influence extended beyond mere hunting, encompassing governance and the organization of society. The cities associated with Nimrod are often linked to the development of early human civilization and the spread of human culture and technology.

Symbolism and Legacy

In a broader sense, Nimrod's hunting can be seen as a metaphor for his ambition and desire for power. His ability to "hunt" and subdue both animals and people reflects the human inclination towards dominion and control, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative. Nimrod's legacy as a "mighty hunter" has also been interpreted as a cautionary tale about the potential for human pride and rebellion against divine authority.

Cultural and Historical Context

The historical and cultural context of Nimrod's account is rooted in the ancient Near East, a region known for its rich history of empires and conquests. The cities attributed to Nimrod were significant in the development of early civilization, and his account reflects the broader themes of human ambition and the establishment of societal structures. Nimrod's association with Babylon, in particular, carries symbolic weight throughout the Bible, as Babylon often represents human pride and opposition to God.

Conclusion

While the Bible provides limited information about Nimrod, his depiction as a "mighty hunter before the LORD" has left a lasting impression on biblical interpretation and tradition. His account serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the enduring themes of power, ambition, and the relationship between humanity and the divine.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 10:9
He was a mighty hunter before the LORD: why it is said, Even as Nimrod the mighty hunter before the LORD.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Chapter x
... sport of hunting men in order to tyrannize or enslave them, must be taken in the
same sense. The critical attempts to find Babylonian parallels for Nimrod are ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter x.htm

On the Babylonish Captivity of the Church on the Babylonish ...
... I now know and am sure that the Papacy is the kingdom of Babylon, and the power
of Nimrod the mighty ... The Papacy is the mighty hunting of the Bishop of Rome. ...
/.../luther/first principles of the reformation/iii on the babylonish captivity.htm

The Shameful Sufferer
... a man who was not ashamed of breaking his oath, and of hunting his own son ... We have
some called kings on earth, children of Nimrod, these are called kings, but ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/the shameful sufferer.htm

Ancient Chaldaea
... Nimrod and his exploits are known to us from the Bible.* "He was a mighty hunter
before the Lord: wherefore it is said, Even as Nimrod the mighty hunter before ...
/.../chapter iancient chaldaea.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... NO.2. FRAGMENT OF MURAL PAINTING (NIMROD).]. ... to the laws of the chase recognised
at Nineveh, priding themselves as much on their exploits in hunting, as on ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... the Babylonian tradition, such as the Deluge, the story of Noah, of Nimrod, etc. ...
did not condemn this as heretical; they had enough to do in hunting down the ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm