What role did nomads play in biblical times?
Learn more about them today! The term “nomad” comes from the Greek form of a Latin word meaning “to graze.” Nomads were wandering shepherds who moved their families and their flocks of sheep and goats from place to place looking for good pasture land and water. They lived in tents and took with them only what clothing and supplies they had to have. They did not often own land, but claimed the land they were using at the time, or even took it over by force. Sometimes they settled in an area after making agreements with the local people (Gen 13.5-18). Wandering nomads who moved in and settled for a time in an area probably made nearby farmers or city dwellers feel anxious and crowded. This may be one reason that, in the ancient world, nomadic shepherds were considered to be lower class and disgusting (Gen 46.34). Nomads were known for being strong and independent. They were cautious about mixing with other peoples, but offered great hospitality to guests (Gen 18.2-8) and would protect th
