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Book of Genesis - Chapter 11 - Verse 3

11:3
And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for mortar.

Meaning

In this verse, the people are gathered together and decide to make bricks to use as building material. The process of making bricks involves burning them thoroughly to ensure they harden, making them more durable for construction. Instead of using stone as their traditional building material, they opt for bricks as they are easier to shape and work with. Additionally, they use slime as mortar to hold the bricks together, a common practice in ancient construction methods. This verse highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people in finding alternative ways to build structures, showcasing their innovation and problem-solving skills. It also demonstrates the importance of collaboration and working together towards a common goal, as the people come together to embark on this construction project. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the creativity and resilience of humanity in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Genesis, we see an intriguing account of a group of people coming together to build a tower to reach the heavens. The use of bricks instead of stones and slime for mortar is significant from a theological perspective. These materials were not as durable or strong as traditional building materials, suggesting that the people relied more on their own abilities and resources rather than trusting in God for the success of their project. Additionally, the act of burning the bricks thoroughly may symbolize the people's desire to assert their independence and power, rather than seeking guidance and protection from God. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and self-sufficiency, reminding us of the importance of humility and reliance on God in all our endeavors.

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