thinking bible.

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what might 'make a name for ourselves' have meant to an ancient near eastern audience?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Genesis 11:4

They said, "Come, let’s build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top reaches to the sky, and let’s make a name for ourselves, otherwise we will be scattered abroad on the surface of the whole earth."

This passage is from the book of Genesis, part of the ancient Israelite foundational stories about the world's beginnings. It describes a time after the great flood, when humanity spoke one language and decided to build a city and a tower in the land of Shinar.

What does this story challenge us to consider about our own desires for legacy and recognition?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Genesis 12:2

    God promises to 'make a name' for Abram, contrasting with human attempts.

  • Deuteronomy 26:19

    God promises to make Israel 'high above all nations in praise and in name and in honor' if they obey.

  • Proverbs 22:1

    A good name is chosen rather than great riches, highlighting the value of reputation.

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