Tower of Babel
65
from the workmen at the top of the tower, calling for material for their
work, which the first would communicate to the second, and he to
the third, until the word reached those upon the ground. As the word
[98]
was passing from one to another in its descent, the angels confounded
their language, and when the word reached the workmen upon the
ground, material was called for which had not been required. And after
the laborious process of getting the material to the workmen at the
top of the tower, it was not that which they wished for. Disappointed
and enraged they reproached those whom they supposed were at fault.
After this there was no harmony in their work. Angry with one another,
and unable to account for the misunderstanding, and strange words
among them, they left the work and separated from each other, and
scattered abroad in the earth. Up to this time men had spoken but one
language. Lightning from heaven as a token of God’s wrath broke off
the top of their tower, casting it to the ground. Thus God would show
to rebellious man that he is supreme.
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