1 Chronicles 1:10 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 1:10 mean?

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.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 1:10

• “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.

Why 1 Chronicles 1:10 matters

• 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.