In Genesis 6:4, how should נְפִילִיים be translated?

 In the context of Genesis 6:4, the term נְפִילִים (Nephilim) refers to a group of beings mentioned in the Bible. Let’s explore its translation and significance:

1. Translation:

   • The word Nephilim appears only three times in the Old Testament: twice in Genesis 6:4 and once in Numbers 13:33.
   • The Nephilim are described as “warriors; mighty men; heroes”¹.
   • They were also known as “men of renown”².
   • Some major lexicons uphold the translation as “giants”, although there are variations in what this term precisely means¹.

2. Context:

   • In Genesis 6:4, it is stated: “There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bore children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown.” (KJV) ¹.
   • The Nephilim are associated with the offspring of the union between the “sons of God” and the “daughters of men”.
   • Their existence is shrouded in ancient lore and mystery.

3. Other References:

   • 1 Chronicles 20:8 also mentions the Nephilim in connection with the city of Gath, where they were born¹.
   • Joshua 15:8 refers to the “valley of Rephaim”, where the word Rephaim (another related term) is used¹.

In summary, the Nephilim are enigmatic figures associated with great strength, renown, and perhaps even divine origins. Their precise nature remains a subject of interpretation and speculation ¹².