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The Founding of Calah in Biblical Context

Nimrud is an ancient Assyrian city (original Assyrian name Kalḫu, biblical name Calah) located in Iraq. The city of Calah, referenced in Genesis 10:11-12, stands as one of the key cities established by Nimrod, described as “a mighty hunter before Jehovah.” The biblical account identifies Calah as part of “the great city,” alongside Nineveh, Resen, and Rehoboth-Ir. These cities were foundational in the early development of Assyria, marking Calah as a significant center of ancient civilization. Nimrod’s establishment of Calah aligns with his depiction as a builder of empires and cities in the post-Flood world, demonstrating humanity’s spread and organizational advancement.

The Hebrew text of Genesis 10 describes Nimrod’s exploits as he expanded his influence, building cities that would later play crucial roles in biblical and secular history. Calah’s placement along the Tigris River and its proximity to the Great Zab River highlights its strategic importance in facilitating trade, agriculture, and military defense, aspects that made it a vital hub within the Assyrian Empire.

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Archaeological Evidence Supporting the Biblical Record

Modern excavations have identified Calah with the site known as Nimrud, located approximately 35 kilometers southeast of ancient Nineveh. The ruins of Calah corroborate the biblical narrative, showcasing its prominence during Assyria’s peak. Artifacts and inscriptions from the site provide a wealth of information regarding its history and culture, affirming its role as a major Assyrian city.

Nimrud Lamassu’s at the North West Palace of Ashurnasirpal

Among the significant archaeological discoveries are colossal winged, man-headed lions and bulls, ziggurat remains, and the famed Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III. This obelisk, which includes references to King Jehu of Israel, serves as a critical intersection of biblical and Assyrian history. The inscriptions highlight the Assyrian dominance over Israel during the ninth century B.C.E., aligning with the biblical accounts in 2 Kings 9-10.

Calah Under Assyrian Rule

Calah’s prominence surged under Ashurnasirpal II in the ninth century B.C.E., who restored the city from a state of decay. Ashurnasirpal moved the Assyrian capital to Calah, constructing massive fortifications, palaces, and temples, including a towering ziggurat. His efforts transformed Calah into a symbol of Assyrian power and grandeur, underscored by his recorded celebration of the city’s completion with a banquet for nearly 70,000 people.

The walls of Ashurnasirpal’s palace were adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting military campaigns, religious ceremonies, and daily life, offering insights into the Assyrian worldview. These artistic and architectural achievements reflect the empire’s wealth and influence, which were often gained at the expense of subjugated nations, including Israel and Judah.

Isaiah 10:5-19 vividly portrays Assyria as “the rod of [Jehovah’s] anger,” used to discipline His people. Calah, as a central Assyrian city, exemplifies the might and arrogance of the empire, which would ultimately face divine judgment for its excesses and idolatry.

Biblical and Historical Significance of Assyrian Artifacts

The Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III, discovered at Calah, is among the most significant artifacts unearthed from the site. This obelisk depicts Jehu, king of Israel, paying tribute to Assyria, a moment that underscores the interplay between Assyrian hegemony and Israel’s struggles during the divided monarchy period. Jehu’s submission to Shalmaneser aligns with the biblical account in 2 Kings 10, where Jehu’s actions, while zealous for Jehovah, also involved political maneuvering to secure his reign.

Lamassu, Stelas, Statue, Relief Panels, including the Black Obelisk of Shalmaneser III (British Museum)

This artifact, along with other inscriptions and reliefs, demonstrates the accuracy of biblical accounts regarding Assyrian interactions with Israel and Judah. It also highlights the broader context of Assyrian expansion, which played a significant role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East.

The Role of Calah in Assyrian Religion and Governance

Calah’s religious and political significance is evident in the temples and ziggurats uncovered at the site. These structures were dedicated to the worship of Assyrian deities such as Ashur and Ishtar, reflecting the centrality of religion in Assyrian governance and culture. The ziggurat at Calah, standing approximately 130 feet tall, symbolized the connection between heaven and earth, a concept echoed in the Tower of Babel narrative (Genesis 11:1-9).

The city’s role as a religious center underscores the idolatrous practices condemned by the prophets. Isaiah, for example, denounces Assyria’s arrogance and reliance on false gods, declaring, “Shall the ax boast itself against him who chops with it?” (Isaiah 10:15). Calah’s opulence and idolatry serve as a reminder of the futility of human pride and the inevitability of divine judgment.

The Downfall of Calah and the Assyrian Empire

Despite its grandeur, Calah ultimately faced desolation along with the rest of the Assyrian Empire. The fall of Nineveh in 612 B.C.E., followed by the collapse of Assyria, marked the end of its dominance. Nahum’s prophecy vividly describes the destruction of Nineveh, the empire’s capital, stating, “Your people are scattered on the mountains with none to gather them” (Nahum 3:18). Calah, as part of the Assyrian heartland, would have shared in this devastation.

This downfall fulfills the biblical theme of divine retribution against nations that defy God’s sovereignty. Assyria’s destruction serves as a warning to all empires that exalt themselves above Jehovah, emphasizing the ultimate triumph of His purposes.

Calah’s Legacy in Biblical Interpretation

Calah’s history, as preserved in both the biblical record and archaeological findings, provides a tangible connection to the events and themes of Scripture. Its rise and fall illustrate the transient nature of human power and the enduring truth of God’s Word. The artifacts from Calah, including the Black Obelisk and bas-reliefs, validate the historical accuracy of the Bible, affirming its reliability as a record of God’s dealings with humanity.

As believers study the history of Calah, they are reminded of the importance of trusting in Jehovah rather than human strength or wisdom. Proverbs 21:30 declares, “There is no wisdom, nor understanding, nor counsel against Jehovah.” The story of Calah underscores this truth, encouraging believers to place their confidence in God’s eternal sovereignty.

Calah and the Broader Biblical Narrative

Calah’s significance extends beyond its role in Assyrian history. It represents the broader biblical narrative of human rebellion and divine intervention. From Nimrod’s establishment of the city to its prominence under Ashurnasirpal and its eventual destruction, Calah embodies the rise and fall of human kingdoms that oppose God’s will.

Nimrud ivory plaque, with original gold leaf and paint, depicting a lion killing a human

The prophetic writings, including those of Isaiah, Nahum, and Jonah, address Assyria’s pride and cruelty, offering both warnings and calls to repentance. Jonah’s mission to Nineveh, a neighboring city of Calah, highlights God’s mercy toward even the most wicked nations when they turn to Him. Jonah 3:10 states, “When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them.”

Calah’s history serves as a backdrop to these profound theological truths, illustrating God’s justice, mercy, and ultimate sovereignty.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).