Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 10:11 mean?
A: Genesis 10:11 describes how Ashur (Assyria) left the land of Shinar (Babylonia) and built the cities of Nineveh, Rechovot, and Kelach. According to Rashi, this verse highlights the expansion of Assyria and the establishment of its major cities, showing how nations spread after the dispersion at the Tower of Babel.
Q: Why is Nineveh mentioned in the Torah?
A: Nineveh is mentioned because it became a significant city in Assyria and later plays an important role in Jewish history, particularly in the story of the prophet Jonah, who was sent to warn its inhabitants to repent. The Midrash (Genesis Rabbah) also discusses its greatness as a city.
Q: What can we learn from Genesis 10:11?
A: This verse teaches us about the fulfillment of Noah’s blessing to his descendants to 'spread out and fill the earth' (Genesis 9:1). It shows how humanity expanded geographically, forming new nations and cities, as part of Hashem’s plan for civilization.
Q: Who was Ashur in the Bible?
A: Ashur (Asshur) was a descendant of Noah through Shem (Genesis 10:22). He is considered the ancestor of the Assyrian people. According to traditional Jewish sources, he either founded or settled in the region that became Assyria, as described in this verse.
Q: How does this verse connect to later Jewish history?
A: Assyria later becomes a major empire that interacts with the Kingdom of Israel, leading to the exile of the Ten Tribes (as described in Kings and Chronicles). The mention of Nineveh here foreshadows its role in Jewish prophetic history, particularly in the Book of Jonah.
Context in Sefer Bereishit
The verse (Bereishit 10:11) appears in the genealogy of Noach's descendants, specifically within the lineage of Cham through his son Kush and grandson Nimrod. It describes how Ashur (Assyria) emerged from that land and built significant cities, including Nineveh, Rechovot Ir, and Kelach.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Ashur left the land of Shinar (where the Tower of Bavel was being built) because he disagreed with the sinful intentions of the generation. He did not want to participate in their rebellion against Hashem. Ashur's departure was an act of righteousness, and he merited to establish great cities as a result.
Midrashic Insights
Rambam's Perspective
While Rambam does not comment directly on this verse, his principles in Moreh Nevuchim (Guide for the Perplexed) suggest that the founding of cities like Nineveh reflects human civilization's development after the Flood. The verse underscores the spread of humanity and the establishment of governance and urban life.
Historical and Geographical Significance
Traditional Jewish sources identify these cities as key locations in ancient Mesopotamia:
Moral Lesson
The verse teaches the importance of separating from sinful environments, as Ashur did. His righteous decision led to the establishment of influential cities, showing that distancing oneself from evil can bring divine blessing and success.