The Nephilim, as described in Ellen White's writings, are identified with the "long-lived race that existed before the Flood"—that is, the antediluvian giants. These were men of "lofty stature and giant intellect," who, under the influence of fallen angels, used their abilities for self-exaltation and evil. Their remarkable works led the world to idolize them, but their cruelty and wicked inventions defiled the earth and defaced the image of God, which ultimately led to their destruction in the Flood.
Key points from the sources:
- The Nephilim were a race of giants before the Flood, known for their great stature, strength, and intellect.
- They yielded to the control of fallen angels and devoted their skills to self-exaltation and evil.
- Their works led to widespread idolatry, cruelty, and corruption, prompting God to blot them from the earth (see
GC 664.1,
4SP 478.1, GC88 663.2).
- After the resurrection of the wicked, these same antediluvian giants are described as resuming their former thoughts and ambitions, still actuated by the same desire to conquer (
GC 664.1).
- The degeneration of humanity after the Flood is noted, with each generation becoming weaker and more subject to disease (
EW 184.2).
- The giants, or Nephilim, are also referenced in the context of the "sons of Anak" seen by the Israelites when scouting Canaan (
PP 388.4,
4T 149.2).
In summary, the Nephilim in Ellen White's writings are the pre-Flood giants—powerful, intelligent, and corrupt—whose evil led to their destruction in the Flood.
References:
- Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, p. 664.1
- Ellen G. White, Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, p. 478.1
- Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy (1888), p. 663.2
- Ellen G. White, Early Writings, p. 184.2
- Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 388.4
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 149.2