Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was Nimrod in the Torah?
A: Nimrod was a powerful king and hunter mentioned in Genesis 10:9. According to Rashi and Midrashic sources, he rebelled against Hashem and built the Tower of Babel. The verse describes him as a 'mighty hunter before the Lord,' which our Sages explain refers to him 'hunting' people's minds to turn them away from serving G-d.
Q: What does 'mighty hunter before the Lord' mean?
A: The phrase 'mighty hunter before the Lord' has two interpretations in Jewish tradition: 1) Literally - he was skilled at hunting animals (Ramban), 2) Figuratively - he 'hunted' people by convincing them to rebel against G-d (Rashi, based on Midrash). The term 'before the Lord' implies he did this openly, challenging Divine authority.
Q: Why is Nimrod important in Jewish tradition?
A: Nimrod is significant because he represents the first major rebellion against G-d after the Flood. The Talmud (Chullin 89a) and Midrash connect him to building the Tower of Babel. He serves as an example of misused power and the dangers of leading people away from Torah values.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Nimrod's story?
A: The story teaches us about proper use of leadership qualities. Nimrod had great abilities (strength, charisma), but used them for the wrong purposes. Jewish ethics (based on Pirkei Avot) teach that true greatness comes from using one's talents to serve Hashem and help others, not to dominate them.
Q: How does the phrase 'like Nimrod' apply today?
A: When people say 'like Nimrod' today (based on the verse's wording), it refers to someone who abuses power or influences others negatively. Jewish thought (based on Rambam's Hilchos De'os) emphasizes using influence positively - to bring people closer to Torah and mitzvos, not further away.
The Nature of Nimrod's Hunting
According to Rashi (Bereshit 10:9), Nimrod was not merely a hunter of animals, but rather he "hunted" the minds of people, persuading them to rebel against Hashem. His title גִבֹּר־צַיִד ("mighty hunter") refers to his ability to ensnare people into idolatry, particularly the generation of the Tower of Bavel. The phrase לִפְנֵי יְהוָה ("before the Lord") implies that he acted defiantly, openly challenging Divine authority.
Nimrod as a Symbol of Rebellion
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 37:2) elaborates that Nimrod established himself as a ruler who forced people to worship idols, earning his name from the Hebrew root מרד ("to rebel"). The Rambam (Hilchos Avodah Zarah 1:2) cites Nimrod as an archetype of those who lead others astray, using his power to turn humanity away from monotheism.
The Proverbial Saying
The phrase כְּנִמְרֹד גִּבּוֹר צַיִד לִפְנֵי יְהוָה ("Like Nimrod the mighty hunter before the Lord") became a common expression, as noted by Ibn Ezra (Bereshit 10:9). It signifies a person who uses strength or cunning for evil purposes, particularly in opposing Hashem's will. The Talmud (Chullin 89a) contrasts Nimrod’s arrogance with Avraham Avinu’s humility, highlighting the spiritual danger of tyrannical leadership.
Nimrod’s Historical Role