Der Thurm zu Babel

The term 'sacred opera' (geistliche Oper in German) was invented by Rubinstein to denote staged works with "use of polyphonic choruses and a sober, edifying style relying on ‘exalted declamation’.

The composer had hoped for a premiere in Berlin, but was consoled by the work's second production in Vienna on 20 February 1870, (which was attended by Johannes Brahms), after which Rubinstein wrote it had been 'brilliantly performed and very well received by the public.'

The work's first performance in America was in May 1881 in New York City, when it was conducted by Leopold Damrosch.

Nimrod and the Master Builder exult at the imminent success of their project to reach Heaven by building the Tower.

As the workers praise Baal, angels descend and destroy the Tower, to the confusion of Nimrod and all present.