Genesis 11:2 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

As they journeyed from the earth— Hence it seems to follow, that the whole posterity of Noah continued together, till now, united under one common head, most probably living in tents, and, according to the most early custom, removing from place to place, for the better convenience of pasturage and the like. And it came to pass, as they journeyed thus eastward, (for so it should be rendered,) more and more towards the east, they arrived at a plain in the land of Shinar, where they pitched their tents, being delighted with it, and continued. By the land of Shinar is meant the pleasant valley, along which the river Tigris runs, comprehending the country of Eden, the happy seat of Adam in his state of innocence; near which, it is probable, his righteous descendants dwelt before the flood; and consequently Noah, as the guide of his family, may well be supposed desirous of returning thither, and so of directing his course that way, or towards the east. It is plain, from scripture, that Babel was the same with the city of Babylon; and Moses expressly says, that Babel lay in the land of Shinar, ch. Genesis 10:10. as well as three other cities which are there mentioned, and found to be situated on the banks of the Tigris; and many footsteps of the name of Shinar in these parts are to be met with, both in ancient and modern authors.