Sulpicius Severus was a Christian writer, historian, and biographer from Aquitania (modern-day France) known for his literary contributions on Christianity. His notable works include the Chronicle and a biography of Saint Martin of Tours.
Severus’ chief work, the Chronicle (Chronica, Chronicorum Libri duo or Historia sacra), provides a comprehensive summary of sacred history from the world’s beginning until his time.
Severus mentions in his work that it was not meant to replace the Bible, but to supplement it with information from secular historians. He wanted to teach both the uneducated and the educated.
Sulpicius Severus’ Interpretation of Genesis 6:1-4
In Book 1 of the Sacred History, Sulpicius Severus discusses his interpretation of the Nephilim in Genesis 6:1-4.
Like many other scholars of his time, he believed that the ‘sons of God’ were descendants of angels.
“When by this time the human race had increased to a great multitude, certain angels, whose habitation was in heaven, were captivated by the appearance of some beautiful virgins, and cherished illicit desires after them, so much so, that falling beneath their own proper nature and origin, they left the higher regions of which they were inhabitants, and allied themselves in earthly marriages.
These angels gradually spreading wicked habits, corrupted the human family, and from their alliance giants are said to have sprung, for the mixture with them of beings of a different nature, as a matter of course, gave birth to monsters.
God being offended by these things, and especially by the wickedness of mankind, which had gone beyond measure, had determined to destroy the whole human race.”
Historia sacra
Severus posits that during a time when the human race had grown immensely, certain angels held illicit desires for mortal women. These desires pushed them to leave their heavenly abode and nature and marry humans.
The angels tainted humanity. As they spread their influence across the world, the giants were born.
This growing sinfulness made God incredibly furious and urged him to destroy humankind all at once.
Sulpicius Severus, in his writings, conveyed a clear conviction regarding the involvement of angels in intermarriages and the subsequent emergence of giants.
A Quest for Understanding: Ancient and Modern Scholars
Centuries have passed since Sulpicius Severus wrote about Genesis 6:1-4, but modern scholars are still grappling with the complexities of this passage, seeking answers to its mysteries.
In the digital age, it is important to approach this topic with discernment. Misinformation and sensationalized content abound, making it difficult to find reliable information.
That is why we, Chasing the Giants, have dedicated ourselves to compiling ancient sources and quality research on the “sons of God” and the Nephilim. We aim to create an online library where anyone can find trusted data on this topic. Ultimately, we believe that this research will point to the Bible’s ability to explain the imperfect state of the world and point to the truth of Jesus.
