Genesis 11:3
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The inhabitants discussed and planned to make bricks and build with them instead of stone.
Context
The people of Shinar possessed knowledge of construction materials and building techniques. They communicated their plan clearly: instead of using natural stone (scarce on the plains), they would manufacture bricks from the abundant clay and thoroughly burn them to create durable building material. Bitumen (slime) would serve as mortar between the bricks.
What Does Genesis 11:3 Mean?
The people of Shinar possessed knowledge of construction materials and building techniques. They communicated their plan clearly: instead of using natural stone (scarce on the plains), they would manufacture bricks from the abundant clay and thoroughly burn them to create durable building material. Bitumen (slime) would serve as mortar between the bricks.
This demonstrates human ingenuity and coordination. The collective discussion ('they said one to another') shows consensus-building, planning, and the capability to translate abstract plans into concrete action through organized effort.
In the Original Language
malben (מַלְבֵּן), 'brick' — a sun-dried or kiln-fired clay block for construction.