Tower of Babel
United by one language and driven by pride, humanity attempted to reach heaven on their own terms.
Following the flood, humanity remained unified in language and purpose as they migrated eastward. They decided to build a city and a tower reaching to the heavens to make a name for themselves and prevent being scattered across the earth. In response to this act of pride and disobedience to God's command to fill the earth, God confused their languages, causing them to no longer understand one another and forcing them to disperse. This event, recorded in Genesis 11, explains the origin of diverse languages and nations while demonstrating God's sovereignty and setting the stage for the subsequent call of Abraham.
Did You Know?
They decided to build a city and a tower reaching to the heavens to make a name for themselves and prevent being scattered across the earth.
In response to this act of pride and disobedience to God's command to fill the earth, God confused their languages, causing them to no longer understand one another and forcing them to disperse.
This event is dated to approximately c. 2200 BC in biblical chronology.
This took place at or near Babylon.
Key Passage
Tower of Babel
Genesis 11:1-9
1nd the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
Meanwhile in the World
The earliest civilizations are emerging in Mesopotamia (Sumer) and Egypt. Writing has not yet been invented. Humans are transitioning from nomadic to agricultural life. The Sumerian King List and early Egyptian dynasties provide the first historical records.