Genesis 11:4
And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.
Genesis 11:4 · King James Version
Meaning
Genesis 11:4 describes the motivation behind the construction of the city of Babel and its towering structure. The people wanted to build a city and tower that reached the heavens in order to make a name for themselves and prevent being scattered across the earth. This passage highlights the hubris and pride of humanity, as they sought to assert their power and attempt to reach the realm of the divine. The desire to build a monument to their own glory rather than obeying God's commands ultimately led to the confusion of languages and the dispersal of the people. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the consequences of seeking to elevate oneself above God. It reminds us of the importance of humility and obedience in the face of divine will, and the folly of trying to achieve greatness through our own efforts. Ultimately, the story of the Tower of Babel serves as a reminder that true greatness comes from honoring and obeying God rather than seeking glory for ourselves.
Theological Overview
In the book of Genesis, the verse mentioned depicts the story of the Tower of Babel, where the people decide to build a city and a tower reaching to the heavens to make a name for themselves and avoid being scattered across the earth. The theological interpretation of this verse often highlights themes of pride, rebellion, and unity. The people's desire to build a tower to reach the heavens can be seen as an act of defiance against God, as it shows their arrogance and desire to elevate themselves to his level. Their intention to make a name for themselves reflects a rejection of God's plan for their lives and a focus on self-glory. Additionally, the fear of being scattered abroad upon the face of the earth can be construed as a lack of trust in God's providence and a desire for control over their destinies. Word studies reveal that the phrase "let us make us a name" implies a quest for fame and recognition, emphasizing the selfish motives behind their actions. Overall, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and disobedience, as well as a reminder of the importance of humility and submission to God's will.
Genesis 11:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they said, Come, let us build us a city, and a tower, whose top [may reach] unto heaven, and let us make us a name; lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.
World English Bible
They said, “Come, let’s build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top reaches to the sky, and let’s make ourselves a name, lest we be scattered abroad on the surface of the whole earth.”
Douay-Rheims
And they said: Come, let us make a city and a tower, the top whereof may reach to heaven; and let us make our name famous before we be scattered abroad into all lands.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Also they said, Goe to, let vs builde vs a citie and a towre, whose top may reache vnto the heauen, that we may get vs a name, lest we be scattered vpon the whole earth.