Devine Scripture

Genesis 10:8

What does Genesis 10:8 mean?

A plain-English look at Genesis 10:8 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Genesis 10:8 means

This verse introduces Nimrod, a significant figure who descended from Cush. He is specifically noted as having "began to be a mighty one in the earth." This marks a departure from a simple genealogical list, highlighting Nimrod's unique role as an early leader and figure of power. The description of him as a "mighty one" suggests a forceful or dominant personality, distinct from his contemporaries who are merely presented as progenitors. It sets the stage for his activities described in subsequent verses.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Cush was the father of Nimrod, who was the first of the great men of the earth.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Cush hath begotten Nimrod;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Now Chus begot Nemrod: he began to be mighty on the earth.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And Cush begot Nimrod: he began to be mighty on the earth.

Context

Following the direct descendants of Cush, this verse highlights one particular figure, Nimrod, as an exception to the normal genealogical enumeration. This interruption signifies Nimrod's unique importance and introduces a narrative element into the otherwise dry list. It sets the context for understanding his role in early human organization and kingdom-building, which will be further elaborated.

v.7And the sons of Cush: Seba, and Havilah, and Sabtah, and Raamah, and Sabteca; and the sons of Raamah: Sheba, and Dedan.

v.8This passage

v.9He was a mighty hunter before Jehovah: wherefore it is said, Like Nimrod a mighty hunter before Jehovah.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Micah 5:6

    And they shall waste the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in the entrances thereof: and he shall deliver us from the Assyrian, when he cometh into our land, and when he treadeth within our border.

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