Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 1:10 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Chronicles 1:10 states that Cush was the father of Nimrod, and that Nimrod was the first to become a powerful figure on earth. The verse highlights Nimrod’s emergence as a notable and influential person in early human history. This verse appears in a genealogy, where the writer is listing the descendants of Adam for the people of Israel. The mention of Nimrod stands out because, unlike most names in the list, the verse adds a detail about his reputation for being “mighty,” suggesting he was known for strength or leadership, not just his family line.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 1:10

Accepted Answer

“Mighty” (גִּבּוֹר, gibbor): This word often means a strong or valiant person, sometimes a warrior or leader. Calling Nimrod “mighty” sets him apart from others in the genealogy as someone recognized for his power or achievements. “Began” (חָלַל, chalal): This word can mean to start or initiate something. Here, it points out that Nimrod was the first to become “mighty” in this way, marking a new kind of figure in the early stories of humanity. “Earth” (אֶרֶץ, erets): This word means “land” or “earth,” and in this context, it emphasizes that Nimrod’s influence was not just local but recognized broadly.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 1:10 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse singles out Nimrod among many names, showing that his reputation for strength or leadership was significant enough to be noted in a list otherwise focused on ancestry. By describing Nimrod as the first to become “mighty,” the verse hints at a turning point in early history, where individuals began to stand out for their deeds, not just their family connections. This mention connects to other biblical stories about Nimrod, helping readers understand why he is remembered and what made him different from others in these genealogies.

1 Chronicles 1:10 (KJV)