3. The confusion of the languages at Babel (11:1-9)

Primeval history reaches its apex of mayhem in the episode of Babel. The story gives an explanation for the diversity of languages and for the spread of peoples over the whole earth. In the latter sense it relates to the preceding chapter. The project is grandiose, capturing the feeling of pride and self-sufficiency. As such, it represents humanity in conflict with God, not only in terms of independence from God, but possibly resistance to the idea of populating the whole earth (v.4, cf. 1:28; 9:1, 7). At any rate, God’s decisive statement, Come, let us (v.7) stands in stark contrast to the ineffectual Come, let’s of the people (vv.3-4). The solution to the language confusion will await the birth of the church when the effects of Babel will be reversed (Ac 2:5-11).