CORRUPTION AND VIOLENCE
(Mythic Violence and the Collapse of Created Order — Genesis 6:1–4)
Biblical Identity and Primary References
The Nephilim are enigmatic figures mentioned briefly in Genesis 6:1–4, appearing immediately before the account of the Flood. They are described as being on the earth “in those days—and also afterward,” and are associated with the union of the “sons of God” and the “daughters of men.” Scripture characterizes them as “mighty men who were of old, men of renown.”
Historical and Cultural Background
The Genesis account reflects an ancient Near Eastern worldview in which stories of giants, demigods, and heroic warriors were common. However, the biblical narrative radically demythologizes such figures. Rather than celebrating them, Scripture presents the Nephilim as part of a world spiraling into moral corruption and unchecked violence. Genesis situates their emergence within the broader breakdown of boundaries established by God at creation—between heaven and earth, divine order and human rebellion.
Biblical Biography
The Nephilim do not have a biography in the personal sense, but they function as a collective symbol. Genesis 6 depicts a time when human wickedness had multiplied, and “every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Gen 6:5). The appearance of the Nephilim coincides with this moral collapse.
The text links them to the transgressive unions between the “sons of God” and human women. Regardless of interpretive stance, the narrative emphasizes that these unions result in violence, domination, and fame rooted in power rather than righteousness. The Nephilim are remembered not for covenant faithfulness but for strength, reputation, and terror. Their presence anticipates divine judgment, not blessing.
References in Other Parts of the Bible
The term “Nephilim” appears again in Numbers 13:33, where Israelite spies describe the inhabitants of Canaan as giants, invoking the memory of the Nephilim to express fear. This later reference reflects perception and memory rather than a reappearance of the same beings.
Jewish Tradition and Understanding
Jewish tradition offers multiple interpretations. Some Second Temple texts understand the Nephilim as the offspring of fallen angels, while rabbinic tradition often emphasizes their association with violence and tyranny rather than metaphysical speculation. Across interpretations, they are viewed negatively—as symbols of a world that has exceeded moral limits.
Catholic Interpretation and Teaching
Catholic theology avoids speculative mythology and reads Genesis 6 primarily through a moral and theological lens. The Catechism affirms that before the Flood, humanity fell into extreme corruption and violence (cf. CCC 401, 1869). The Nephilim represent the distortion of power when separated from obedience to God. The Church does not define the Nephilim as angel-human hybrids but emphasizes the lesson: sin escalates when boundaries willed by God are transgressed.
Connection to Jesus, Mary, and Salvation History
The Nephilim belong to the pre-Flood world that necessitated divine judgment and renewal. Their violent legacy stands in stark contrast to Jesus Christ, who reveals true greatness through humility and self-giving love. Mary, the New Eve, cooperates freely and obediently with God, undoing the pride and disorder symbolized by the Nephilim.
Typology and New Testament Fulfillment
The Nephilim typify false greatness—power without holiness. In the New Testament, Christ redefines greatness as service (Mk 10:42–45). Where the Nephilim dominate, Christ redeems; where they spread violence, Christ brings peace.
What Makes This Person / Theme Unique
The Nephilim are unique as figures remembered not for covenant relationship but for reputation, strength, and fear. They represent fame divorced from righteousness.
Strengths and Virtues
Scripture attributes no virtues to the Nephilim. Their “might” is presented descriptively, not morally, and is associated with corruption rather than goodness.
Weaknesses, Failures, or Sins
The Nephilim are associated with violence, pride, and the collapse of moral order. They embody the sinful misuse of power and the glorification of domination.
Lessons for Christian Leadership and Witnessing
The Nephilim warn against equating strength, fame, or influence with divine approval. Christian leadership must be rooted in holiness, humility, and obedience, not domination or renown.
Reflection
The Nephilim stand as a sobering reminder that greatness without God leads to destruction. Their brief mention before the Flood underscores how swiftly humanity can descend when power replaces righteousness.
Prayer
Just and holy God, You alone are the source of true greatness. Preserve us from the pride that seeks power without obedience, and form in us the humility of Christ, that we may reflect Your holiness in a world tempted by violence and false glory. Amen.