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The Tower of Babel

 (Bereshit / Genesis 11)

The story of the Tower of Babel comes after the flood and the story of Noah. Humanity is growing again, but the Torah shows us a new kind of problem — not violence, but pride and misuse of unity.

One Language, One Purpose

The Torah tells us that everyone spoke the same language and lived together. At first, this seems positive. Unity is usually a good thing in Judaism.

But the people decide to build a tower “with its top in the heavens” to make a name for themselves and prevent being scattered across the earth.

What Was the Real Problem?

Jewish commentators explain that the problem was not the tower itself. Building is not wrong. The issue was why they were building.

They wanted power, fame, and control. They were afraid of difference and change. Instead of using unity to improve the world, they used it to glorify themselves.

This teaches an important Jewish idea: unity without humility can become dangerous.

Forgetting the Individual

Midrash teaches that during the tower’s construction, if a brick fell, people mourned — but if a person fell, no one noticed.

This story shows what happens when people value achievement more than human life. Judaism teaches that people always matter more than projects.

God Confuses the Languages

God responds by confusing their language and scattering them across the earth. This is not simply a punishment, but a correction.

Judaism teaches that diversity is part of God’s plan. Different languages, cultures, and perspectives help prevent the kind of power that erases individuality.

A World of Differences

In Jewish thought, the many languages of the world are not a failure, but a feature of creation. Difference encourages humility, listening, and cooperation.

Later in the Torah, unity will return — but through shared values and justice, not control.

The Message for Us

The story of the Tower of Babel teaches us:

l Unity must be guided by humility and ethics

l Human life is more important than success or fame

l Diversity is part of God’s design

l Power without responsibility leads to harm


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