Nemrod

Nemrod (also spelled Nimrod or Nemrud) is a figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis and the Book of Chronicles in the Bible. He is described as a king in the land of Shinar, which is often associated with the ancient city-states of Babylon, Uruk, Akkad, and Calneh. Nemrod is traditionally considered the leader of those who built the Tower of Babel in the land of Shinar, though the Bible never explicitly states this.

Etymology

The name "Nemrod" is of uncertain etymology, though it is often linked to the Hebrew verb marad, meaning "rebel". Some scholars suggest that the name may have been a derogatory term implying "he who made all the people rebellious against God".

Biblical Account

According to the Book of Genesis (Genesis 10:8–12), Nemrod was a son of Cush, who was a son of Ham, who was a son of Noah. He was a mighty hunter before the Lord, hence the saying, "Like Nemrod, a mighty hunter before the Lord". The beginning of his kingdom was Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar. From that land he went into Assyria and built Nineveh, Rehoboth-Ir, Calah, and Resen between Nineveh and Calah; that is the great city.

Historical Interpretations

Historically, Nemrod has been associated with several historical figures. Some early Christian commentators identified him with Ninus, a mythical king of Assyria. Others have associated him with historical figures such as the Babylonian god Marduk, or the Assyrian king Tukulti-Ninurta I.

Cultural References

Nemrod's reputation as a mighty hunter has led to his name being given to a variety of things associated with hunting. For example, the Nemrod Company, a manufacturer of diving and hunting equipment, is named after him. In addition, "Nemrod" is used in a metaphorical sense to refer to a skillful hunter or someone who is particularly good at finding things.

See Also

• Tower of Babel
• Babylon
• Ninus
• Marduk