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Book of Genesis - Chapter 10 - Verse 11

10:11
Out of that land went forth Asshur, and builded Nineveh, and the city Rehoboth, and Calah,

Meaning

Genesis 10:11 describes the descendants of Noah's son Shem, particularly focusing on the lineage of Asshur. It explains that Asshur, a great-grandson of Noah, set out from the land of Shinar and built several cities, including Nineveh, Rehoboth, and Calah. This verse not only showcases the expansion of civilization after the flood but also highlights the importance of Asshur in establishing these prominent cities in ancient Mesopotamia. Nineveh, in particular, became a significant city in the Assyrian Empire and is mentioned multiple times in the Bible for its size, wealth, and eventual downfall. The mention of Rehoboth and Calah in this verse provides additional insight into the early urban development in that region. Overall, Genesis 10:11 serves as a historical account of how cities like Nineveh came into existence and flourished, shaping the course of ancient history in the Middle East.

Theological Overview

The verse "Out of that land went forth Asshur, and builded Nineveh, and the city Rehoboth, and Calah," is a significant passage in the Book of Genesis, shedding light on the historical context of the ancient city of Nineveh. In a theological interpretation of this verse, Asshur is believed to be the progenitor of the Assyrian people, who built important cities like Nineveh, Rehoboth, and Calah. The city of Nineveh, in particular, holds great biblical significance as it was a central location for several events in the Old Testament, including the story of Jonah and the whale. Additionally, a word study of the names mentioned in this verse reveals the rich history and culture of the ancient Near East, highlighting the development and growth of civilization in that region. By examining the origins of these cities and the people associated with them, we gain a deeper understanding of the historical and theological implications of this verse.

American Standard Version

Out of that land he went forth into Assyria, and builded Nineveh, and Rehoboth-Ir, and Calah,
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