Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 10:12 mean when it mentions Resen, Nineveh, and Kelaĥ?
A: Genesis 10:12 describes the cities built by Nimrod (as mentioned in previous verses). Resen was located between Nineveh and Kelaĥ, forming part of a major metropolitan area in ancient Assyria. Rashi explains that this region was significant because it was a powerful kingdom, and the Torah highlights its greatness to show the extent of human civilization after the dispersion from Babel.
Q: Why is Nineveh called a 'great city' in Genesis 10:12?
A: Nineveh is called a 'great city' because it was a major center of power and civilization in ancient times. The Talmud (Megillah 11a) notes that Nineveh was vast in size and population. Later, it became the capital of Assyria and played a key role in biblical history, including the story of Jonah, who was sent to warn its inhabitants to repent.
Q: What can we learn from the mention of these ancient cities in Genesis 10:12?
A: The mention of these cities teaches us about the early development of human civilization after the Flood. Rambam (Guide for the Perplexed 2:30) explains that the Torah records these details to show how nations spread and established kingdoms. It also reminds us that human achievements, no matter how great, are temporary without moral direction, as seen later in the downfall of Assyria.
Q: How does Genesis 10:12 connect to the broader narrative of the Torah?
A: This verse is part of the 'Table of Nations' (Genesis 10), which traces the descendants of Noah’s sons. It sets the stage for later biblical events, as Assyria (where Nineveh was located) becomes a major player in Jewish history. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 37:4) connects these cities to Nimrod’s kingdom, showing how power was centralized in ancient times.
Context in Sefer Bereishit
This verse appears in Bereishit 10:12 as part of the genealogy of Nimrod and the description of his kingdom. The verse identifies Resen as a city situated between Nineveh and Kelaḥ, emphasizing its greatness.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Bereishit 10:12) explains that Resen was a significant city, referred to as "the great city" (הָעִיר הַגְּדֹלָה). He connects this to Yonah 3:3, where Nineveh is called "the great city," suggesting that Resen was either part of Nineveh or so closely associated with it that they were considered one metropolitan area. Rashi also notes that Resen served as the royal capital of Assyria.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 37:4) elaborates on Nimrod's kingdom, stating that Resen was one of the four primary cities in his domain (along with Bavel, Erech, and Akkad). The emphasis on Resen being a "great city" highlights the grandeur and power of Nimrod's empire, which stood in contrast to the divine will, as Nimrod represented rebellion against Hashem (as seen in the Tower of Bavel narrative).
Rambam's Perspective
While Rambam does not comment directly on this verse, his teachings in Moreh Nevuchim (Guide for the Perplexed) about the development of early civilizations align with the Torah's depiction of urban centers like Resen. These cities were centers of human achievement but also potential hubs of moral corruption, as seen in the narratives of Dor Haflagah and Sedom.
Geographical Significance
Spiritual Lessons
The mention of Resen as a "great city" serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power. Despite its grandeur, Resen—like all of Nimrod's empire—faded into obscurity, teaching that true greatness lies in serving Hashem rather than in earthly achievements (as echoed in Mishlei 16:18).