How do you write about the origins of legendary beings? There is little historical or archaeological evidence, it’s a bit like trying to prove the existence of Odin by searching for the remains of Sleipnir, his trusty eight legged steed. It was interesting to explore the mythology though, and I’ve pulled together some of the more likely sources of inspiration that scholars may have utilised when writing the Watchers and Nephilim story in Biblical texts. I don’t want to focus too much on religious context though, as there are fascinating stories from shamanic tribes and ancient civilizations that warrant considering. 

 

The origins of the Watchers and Nephilim mythology are diverse and complex, drawing from different cultural and historical sources. Watchers appear in different forms across indigenous tribal beliefs, demigod legends, Mesopotamian mythology, and celestial deity traditions. Some people interpret Watchers as extraterrestrial visitors or even highly advanced early civilizations on Earth who shared their knowledge with mankind, while others see them as spiritual intermediaries or powerful, benevolent guardians. Mesopotamian influences, particularly the Anunnaki and Apkallu, contributed to the concept of divine beings imparting knowledge to humanity. Many cultures feature luminous bird-like or storm deities that share traits with the Watchers, emphasizing their role as messengers between divine and earthly realms.

 

Whatever your beliefs, whether spiritual, extraterrestrial or early terrestrial civilizations, there is little doubt that the Watchers were considered powerful and knowledgeable beings, and that their gifts to mankind have had a lasting impact. 

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The Nephilim were referred to in Biblical texts as “the mighty men of old, men of renown” and share characteristics with demigods from various mythologies, who are portrayed as offspring of divine and mortal unions. Biblical accounts portray the Nephilim as monstrous giants who exploited and killed mankind, a depiction that may reflect cultural or political motivations of the writers. This portrayal, particularly in the context of the Israelites' invasion of Canaan, could have been used to justify conquest or to differentiate Israelite beliefs from those of neighboring cultures, highlighting the interplay between mythology, politics, and cultural identity in ancient texts.

 

A less supernatural view is that the Nephilim were rebellious, those who turned away from righteousness, or the descendants of Seth and Cain, the righteous and cursed sons of Adam. Creating an “us” and “them” narrative and defining the other as monstrous and corrupt was an important element in solidifying the Israelite cultural identity, and the Nephilm story was a powerful tale of rebellion and divine punishment meant to control and unify the population.

 

The Nephilim were also referred to as being related to the sons of Anak, but the meaning is not completely clear. Anak is presented in the Bible as an individual, specifically as the son of Arba (Joshua 15:13). However, the term Anakim, sons of Anak, may have been used to refer to a group or tribe of people who were of great size and strength. Both the Anakim and Nephilim were said to be giants though, as were the Rephaim, who were mentioned in Ugaritic mythology.

 

The Nephilim mythology is fascinating, as the small amount of conflicting information in the Bible has sparked speculation and debate for centuries. It has spawned an enormous amount of art and conspiracy theory in equal measure. While I do not propose to have all the answers, I think it is important to explore the possibilities of their origins and how we can learn from and interact with the Nephilim myths in our modern world.