Photo Credit: Jewish Press
Humanity’s Rebellion Against the Creator
Shortly after humanity is saved from the terrible flood, a new rebellion emerges as mankind seeks to build a tower to make a name for themselves, defying the Divine order.
The Ramban interprets this act as a grave offense, likening it to the spiritual rupture of Elisha ben Abuye. The punishment of scattering and confusing languages was fitting for their crime, as they sought sovereignty and independence from God.
Human nature, as shown through Adam and the descendants of Noach, tends towards rebellion. The Ramban highlights the different divine names used in the flood and the Tower of Babel incidents, emphasizing the gravity of their transgressions.
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah further illustrates the consequences of willful rebellion against the Divine, leading to their miraculous downfall by the omnipotent Hashem.