Denison Journal of Religion
Article Title
Abstract
Dixon reimagines the story of the tower of Babel by making God's dispersion of the people a reward instead of a punishment. While this story is often read as a sign of humanity's hubris and disobedience and God's punishment, this essay choose to see the narrative as evidence of God's pride in his people and his confidence in them to populate the earth. While the vast majority of the Genesis stories show very specific interactions between particular men and women and God, this story depicts a broader narrative. Perhaps while the other stories attempt to demonstrate the relationships that exist between the divine and humanity, this narrative's purpose is to explain the existence of many successful cultures. This is a story of humanity's creative success in their effort to build the tower, and God recognizing that creativity. In order for that success to replicate, God divides humanity, charges them to populate the world, and joyfully watches as the creativity blossoms in all corners of the earth. God offered a diversity of languages and human experiences to enable men and women to make the most of their creative potential.
Recommended Citation
Dixon, Stephanie
(2007)
"The Tower of Babel: The Dispersion of God's People,"
Denison Journal of Religion: Vol. 7, Article 3.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.denison.edu/religion/vol7/iss1/3