The Defiling of Dinah
1Now Dinah, the daughter Leah had borne to Jacob, went out to visit the daughters of the land.2When Shechem son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the region, saw her, he took her and lay with her by force.3And his soul was drawn to Dinah, the daughter of Jacob. He loved the young girl and spoke to her tenderly.4So Shechem told his father Hamor, “Get me this girl as a wife.”
5Jacob heard that Shechem had defiled his daughter Dinah, but since his sons were with his livestock in the field, he remained silent about it until they returned.6Meanwhile, Shechem’s father Hamor came to speak with Jacob.7When Jacob’s sons heard what had happened, they returned from the field. They were filled with grief and fury, because Shechem had committed an outrage in Israela by lying with Jacob’s daughter—a thing that should not be done.
8But Hamor said to them, “My son Shechem longs for your daughter. Please give her to him as his wife.9Intermarry with us; give us your daughters and take our daughters for yourselves.10You may settle among us, and the land will be open to you. Live here, move about freely, and acquire your own property.”
11Then Shechem said to Dinah’s father and brothers, “Grant me this favor, and I will give you whatever you ask.12Demand a high dowry and an expensive gift, and I will give you whatever you ask. Only give me the girl as my wife!”
The Revenge of Dinah’s Brothers
13But because Shechem had defiled their sister Dinah, Jacob’s sons answered him and his father Hamor deceitfully.14“We cannot do such a thing,” they said. “To give our sister to an uncircumcised man would be a disgrace to us.15We will consent to this on one condition, that you become circumcised like us—every one of your males.16Then we will give you our daughters and take your daughters for ourselves. We will dwell among you and become one people.17But if you will not agree to be circumcised, then we will take our sister and go.”
18Their offer seemed good to Hamor and his son Shechem.19The young man, who was the most respected of all his father’s household, did not hesitate to fulfill this request, because he was delighted with Jacob’s daughter.
20So Hamor and his son Shechem went to the gate of their city and addressed the men of their city:21“These men are at peace with us. Let them live and trade in our land; indeed, it is large enough for them. Let us take their daughters in marriage and give our daughters to them.22But only on this condition will the men agree to dwell with us and be one people: if all our men are circumcised as they are.23Will not their livestock, their possessions, and all their animals become ours? Only let us consent to them, and they will dwell among us.”
24All the men who went out of the city gate listened to Hamor and his son Shechem, and every male of the city was circumcised.
25Three days later, while they were still in pain, two of Jacob’s sons (Dinah’s brothers Simeon and Levi) took their swords, went into the unsuspecting city, and slaughtered every male.26They killed Hamor and his son Shechem with their swords, took Dinah out of Shechem’s house, and went away.
27Jacob’s other sons came upon the slaughter and looted the city, because their sister had been defiled.28They took their flocks and herds and donkeys, and everything else in the city or in the field.29They carried off all their possessions and women and children, and they plundered everything in their houses.
30Then Jacob said to Simeon and Levi, “You have brought trouble upon me by making me a stench to the Canaanites and Perizzites, the people of this land. We are few in number; if they unite against me and attack me, I and my household will be destroyed.”
31But they replied, “Should he have treated our sister like a prostitute?”
Footnotes:
7a Oragainst Israel
In this chapter, we delve into the unfortunate account of Dinah, Jacob's daughter, who was violated by Shechem, the prince of the region. The aftermath of this act leads to a cunning plot of revenge, carefully orchestrated by her brothers, resulting in brutal consequences that unsettle Jacob and his household.
• Hamor is called “the prince of the land,” a term also used of local rulers in tablets from Mari and Alalakh.
• The narrative underscores the fragile coexistence between nomadic patriarchal families and urban Canaanite populations.
Dinah’s outing “to see the women of the land” hints at social engagement beyond family tents. In patriarchal culture, a daughter’s honor was bound to family honor (Deuteronomy 22:28-29). Violation without negotiation endangered future alliances. Simeon and Levi’s fierce response reflects that social reality, though their method exceeds legal norms later set in the Law (Exodus 21:12;Leviticus 19:18).
1. Offense: Shechem’s act is called “a disgraceful thing in Israel”—language echoed for rape in2 Samuel 13:12.
2. Proposed Settlement: Hamor offers a large bride-price. Under Mosaic Law centuries later, a violator had to pay fifty shekels and marry the woman if the father consented (Deuteronomy 22:28-29). Jacob’s family could have chosen that path; instead the brothers seek blood justice.
• A massive earthen rampart and Cyclopean wall have been uncovered, supporting a powerful mid-2nd-millennium city.
• A sacred standing stone and altar found by German archaeologist Ernst Sellin in 1926 may reflect worship practices dating back to Jacob’s time (Genesis 33:20).
• Tablets mention rulers with Hurrian and West Semitic names, paralleling “Hamor” (possibly related to a Semitic word for “donkey”).
• Jesus meets a woman at Jacob’s well in Shechem’s vicinity (Sychar) and offers living water that transcends ethnic hostility (John 4). The past stain at Shechem contrasts with Christ’s healing visit.
• Unchecked anger, even when fueled by righteous outrage, can produce lasting harm.James 1:20: “Man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God.”
• God works amid messy human choices. Despite failure, He preserves His covenant line. Judah—another flawed brother—will eventually carry the Messianic promise (Genesis 49:10).
• Forgiveness and justice must walk together. The cross fulfills both, offering a model higher than human vengeance.
“Circumcise the flesh of your foreskin. This will be a sign of the covenant between Me and you.” (Genesis 17:11).
Connections to Additional Scriptures
Romans 12:19Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'
Proverbs 3:5-6Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Matthew 5:9Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
Teaching Points
The Defilement of DinahGenesis 34:1-2 introduces the tragic event where Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite, defiles Dinah. This act sets the stage for the unfolding drama and highlights the vulnerability of Dinah in a foreign land.
Shechem's Desire and ProposalDespite his wrongdoing, Shechem's heart is drawn to Dinah, and he seeks to marry her, as seen in
Genesis 34:3-4. This reflects a complex mix of genuine affection and cultural insensitivity.
Jacob's Silence and the Brothers' DeceitIn
Genesis 34:5-7, Jacob remains silent upon hearing of Dinah's defilement, while her brothers are filled with grief and fury. Their deceitful response to Shechem's proposal, demanding circumcision, is outlined in
Genesis 34:13-17.
The Massacre at ShechemThe brothers' deceit leads to a brutal massacre, as Simeon and Levi kill all the males in Shechem's city (
Genesis 34:25-26). This act of vengeance raises questions about justice and morality.
Jacob's Concern for ReputationIn
Genesis 34:30, Jacob expresses concern over the potential repercussions of his sons' actions, fearing retaliation from surrounding communities.
Practical Applications
Guard Against Deceit and VengeanceThis chapter warns against allowing anger and deceit to dictate our actions. We must seek God's guidance to respond righteously to injustice.
Value of Family and CommunityThe narrative underscores the importance of protecting and valuing family, while also considering the broader impact of our actions on the community.
Seek Justice, Not RevengeWhile justice is important, it must be pursued in a manner that aligns with God's principles, avoiding the destructive path of revenge.
People
1.
DinahThe daughter of Jacob and Leah. She is central to the events of
Genesis 34, as she is the one who goes out to visit the women of the land and is subsequently defiled by Shechem. Her name in Hebrew, דִּינָה (Dinah), means "judged" or "vindicated."
2.
JacobThe patriarch of the family, father of Dinah, and husband to Leah and Rachel. He is the son of Isaac and Rebekah and is also known as Israel. In this chapter, Jacob initially remains silent upon hearing of Dinah's defilement until his sons return.
3.
LeahThe mother of Dinah and one of Jacob's wives. Leah is not directly mentioned in the events of this chapter, but her role as Dinah's mother is significant in understanding the family dynamics.
4.
ShechemThe son of Hamor the Hivite, prince of the land. He is the one who defiles Dinah and then seeks to marry her. His name in Hebrew, שְׁכֶם (Shechem), means "shoulder" or "ridge."
5.
HamorThe father of Shechem and a Hivite prince. He negotiates with Jacob and his sons for the marriage of Shechem to Dinah.
6.
SimeonOne of Jacob's sons by Leah and a brother of Dinah. He, along with Levi, takes a leading role in avenging Dinah by deceitfully attacking the city of Shechem.
7.
LeviAnother son of Jacob and Leah, and brother of Dinah. He collaborates with Simeon in the attack on Shechem's city.
8.
The Sons of JacobWhile Simeon and Levi are specifically named for their actions, the other sons of Jacob are also involved in the plundering of the city after the attack. They are collectively referred to in the narrative.
Places
1.
ShechemShechem is a city in the land of Canaan. It is significant in this chapter as the place where Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah, is defiled by Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite, who is the prince of the land. The city becomes central to the narrative as Jacob's sons respond to the incident.
2.
HamorWhile not a place, Hamor is the father of Shechem and the ruler of the city. His name is often associated with the city itself, as he is the one who negotiates with Jacob and his sons for Dinah's hand in marriage to his son Shechem.
3.
Jacob's CampAlthough not explicitly named as a specific location in this chapter, Jacob's camp is implied as the place where Jacob and his family are residing at the time of the events. It serves as the base from which Jacob's sons launch their response to the incident with Dinah.
Events
1.
Dinah Visits the Women of the LandDinah, the daughter of Leah and Jacob, went out to visit the women of the land. This sets the stage for the subsequent events. The Hebrew root for "went out" (יָצָא, yatsa) implies a deliberate action or movement.
2.
Shechem's Violation of DinahShechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite, saw Dinah, took her, and violated her. The Hebrew verb used here for "violated" (עָנָה, anah) indicates an act of humiliation or affliction.
3.
Shechem's Love and Desire for DinahDespite his actions, Shechem's soul was drawn to Dinah, and he loved the young woman and spoke tenderly to her. The Hebrew word for "love" (אָהַב, ahav) suggests a deep emotional attachment.
4.
Shechem Seeks to Marry DinahShechem asked his father Hamor to get Dinah for him as a wife. This reflects the cultural practice of arranged marriages and negotiations between families.
5.
Jacob Learns of the IncidentJacob heard that Shechem had defiled his daughter Dinah, but he remained silent until his sons returned from the fields. The Hebrew term for "defiled" (טָמֵא, tame) conveys a sense of ritual impurity.
6.
Hamor's Proposal to Jacob and His SonsHamor went to speak with Jacob and his sons, proposing intermarriage between their peoples. He offered generous terms, including land and trade opportunities.
7.
The Sons of Jacob's Deceptive AgreementThe sons of Jacob, particularly Simeon and Levi, responded deceitfully to Hamor and Shechem, agreeing to the marriage on the condition that all the males of the city be circumcised. The Hebrew root for "deceitfully" (מִרְמָה, mirmah) indicates treachery or guile.
8.
The Mass CircumcisionHamor and Shechem agreed to the terms, and all the men of the city were circumcised. This act was intended to integrate the two communities.
9.
Simeon and Levi's AttackOn the third day, while the men were still in pain, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brothers, attacked the city, killing all the males, including Hamor and Shechem. The Hebrew root for "attack" (לָקַח, laqach) implies taking by force.
10.
Plundering of the CityThe other sons of Jacob joined in plundering the city, taking livestock, women, and children as spoils. This act of retribution was comprehensive and devastating.
11.
Jacob's Concern for RetaliationJacob expressed concern to Simeon and Levi about the potential retaliation from the surrounding Canaanite and Perizzite communities, fearing that their family would be destroyed.
12.
Simeon and Levi's JustificationSimeon and Levi defended their actions by questioning whether their sister should have been treated like a prostitute, highlighting their sense of justice and family honor. The Hebrew word for "prostitute" (זֹנָה, zonah) underscores the gravity of the offense against Dinah.
Lessons from Genesis 34
1. The Importance of Family Honor
InGenesis 34, we see the repercussions of dishonoring family. Dinah's brothers, Simeon and Levi, react fiercely to the violation of their sister. This reminds us of the importance of protecting and honoring our family. As believers, we are called to "honor your father and mother" (Exodus 20:12), and by extension, to uphold the dignity of our family members.
2. The Consequences of Rash Decisions
Simeon and Levi's decision to take revenge was impulsive and led to further violence. This teaches us to be cautious and prayerful in our decision-making.Proverbs 19:2 warns, "Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way." Patience and wisdom are key.
3. The Dangers of Unequal Alliances
The chapter highlights the dangers of forming alliances with those who do not share our values. Shechem's desire to marry Dinah without regard for her or her family's beliefs serves as a cautionary tale. As2 Corinthians 6:14 advises, "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers."
4. The Power of Influence
Jacob's sons influenced each other to commit acts of violence. This reminds us of the power of influence and the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly counsel.Proverbs 13:20 states, "He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed."
5. The Need for Justice and Mercy
While seeking justice for Dinah, Simeon and Levi lacked mercy.Micah 6:8 calls us to "act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." Balancing justice with mercy reflects God's character and should guide our actions.
6. The Role of Leadership
Jacob's response to his sons' actions shows the importance of leadership. Leaders must guide with wisdom and integrity, addressing wrongs while promoting peace. AsJames 3:17 reminds us, "The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere."
7. The Impact of Sin on Community
The sin of Shechem affected not just Dinah but the entire community. This illustrates how sin can have far-reaching consequences.Romans 5:12 tells us, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned."
8. The Call to Repentance
While the chapter does not explicitly mention repentance, the need for it is evident. Repentance is a turning away from sin and a turning towards God.Acts 3:19 encourages us, "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away."
9. The Value of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is not explicitly shown in this chapter, but its absence is felt.Ephesians 4:32 instructs us, "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." Forgiveness is essential for healing and reconciliation.
10. Trusting in God's Sovereignty
Despite the chaos, God's sovereignty remains. He works through imperfect people and situations to fulfill His purposes.Romans 8:28 reassures us, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose."
Genesis 34, though a difficult chapter, offers profound lessons that encourage us to live in a way that honors God and reflects His love and justice in our lives.
Topics
1.
Dinah's Visit and DefilementDinah, the daughter of Leah and Jacob, goes out to visit the women of the land. She is seen and defiled by Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite.
^"Now Dinah, the daughter Leah had borne to Jacob, went out to visit the daughters of the land. When Shechem son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the region, saw her, he took her and lay with her by force."^ (
Genesis 34:1-2)
2.
Shechem's Desire to Marry DinahDespite his actions, Shechem's soul is drawn to Dinah, and he desires to marry her, speaking tenderly to her.
^"And his soul was drawn to Dinah, the daughter of Jacob. He loved the young woman and spoke to her tenderly."^ (
Genesis 34:3)
3.
Hamor's Proposal to JacobShechem's father, Hamor, approaches Jacob to negotiate a marriage between Shechem and Dinah.
^"So Shechem told his father Hamor, 'Get me this girl as a wife.' Jacob heard that Shechem had defiled his daughter Dinah, but since his sons were with his livestock in the field, he remained silent about it until they returned."^ (
Genesis 34:4-5)
4.
The Deceitful AgreementJacob's sons deceitfully agree to the marriage on the condition that all the males in Shechem's city be circumcised.
^"But Jacob’s sons answered Shechem and his father Hamor deceitfully. They spoke because Shechem had defiled their sister Dinah."^ (
Genesis 34:13)
5.
The Mass CircumcisionHamor and Shechem convince the men of their city to undergo circumcision, promising them benefits from the union with Jacob's family.
^"All the men who went out of the city gate listened to Hamor and his son Shechem, and every male of the city was circumcised."^ (
Genesis 34:24)
6.
The Revenge of Simeon and LeviOn the third day, while the men of the city are in pain, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brothers, attack and kill all the males in the city.
^"On the third day, when they were still in pain, two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brothers, took their swords, came upon the unsuspecting city, and killed every male."^ (
Genesis 34:25)
7.
Plundering of the CityJacob's sons plunder the city, taking their wealth, women, and children as captives.
^"Jacob’s other sons came upon the slaughter and looted the city, because their sister had been defiled."^ (
Genesis 34:27)
8.
Jacob's Concern for ReputationJacob expresses concern over the potential repercussions from neighboring peoples due to the actions of Simeon and Levi.
^"Then Jacob said to Simeon and Levi, 'You have brought trouble on me by making me a stench to the Canaanites and Perizzites, the people living in the land. We are few in number; if they unite against me and attack me, I and my household will be destroyed.'"^ (
Genesis 34:30)
9.
Simeon and Levi's JustificationSimeon and Levi justify their actions by questioning whether their sister should have been treated like a prostitute.
^"But they replied, 'Should he have treated our sister like a prostitute?'"^ (
Genesis 34:31)
Themes
1.
Defilement and HonorThe chapter begins with the defilement of Dinah, Jacob's daughter, by Shechem. This act is described as a violation of her honor and purity. The Hebrew word used for "defiled" (טָמֵא, tame) indicates a state of ceremonial impurity, highlighting the gravity of Shechem's actions (
Genesis 34:2).
2.
Family and Community HonorThe response of Dinah's brothers, particularly Simeon and Levi, underscores the importance of family and community honor. They view Shechem's act as a disgrace not only to Dinah but to their entire family, reflecting the communal nature of honor in ancient Israelite society (
Genesis 34:7).
3.
Deception and RetributionThe theme of deception is prominent as Jacob's sons deceitfully agree to Shechem's proposal for marriage, demanding that all the men of the city be circumcised. This act of deception is a prelude to their violent retribution (
Genesis 34:13-17).
4.
Vengeance and JusticeSimeon and Levi's subsequent attack on the city of Shechem is an act of vengeance. They kill all the males, plunder the city, and take captives. This raises questions about justice and the appropriate response to wrongdoing, as their actions go beyond personal retribution to collective punishment (
Genesis 34:25-29).
5.
Consequences of ViolenceJacob's reaction to his sons' actions highlights the consequences of violence. He fears retaliation from the surrounding Canaanite and Perizzite communities, which could threaten the survival of his family. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the repercussions of sin and violence (
Genesis 34:30).
6.
Moral and Ethical DilemmasThe chapter presents moral and ethical dilemmas, such as the tension between justice and mercy, and the appropriate response to sin. Jacob's sons believe they are defending their sister's honor, but their methods raise questions about the morality of their actions (
Genesis 34:31).
Prayer Points
Pray for wisdom and discernment in responding to injustice and wrongdoing.
Ask God to help us guard our hearts against anger and deceit.
Seek God's guidance in valuing and protecting our families and communities.
Pray for the strength to pursue peace and justice in a manner that honors God.
Answering Tough Questions
1.
Genesis 34:2 – How can the apparent disregard for Dinah’s autonomy be squared with a just and compassionate God?2.Genesis 34:13–29 – Why would Simeon and Levi punish an entire city for one man’s crime, and is there historical or archaeological evidence of such collective retribution?
3.Genesis 34:22 – Could the use of circumcision as a deceptive tactic reflect an anachronistic or exaggerated element in the text?
4.Genesis 34:27–29 – How does the looting and enslavement of the city align with later biblical laws condemning such acts?
5.Genesis 34:30 – Why does Jacob seem more concerned about his reputation than the moral implications of the violence committed by his sons?
Bible Study Discussion Questions
1. How does Shechem's action towards Dinah highlight the issue of power abuse?
2. Why does Jacob remain silent upon hearing about Dinah's violation, and what does this imply about his leadership as a father?
3. How do Jacob's sons respond to the news of their sister's defilement, and what does this say about their sense of honor and justice?
4. What does Hamor's proposal of intermarriage suggest about his understanding of the situation and his intent?
5. How do Jacob's sons use the sacred rite of circumcision as a weapon of deception, and what does this indicate about their regard for the covenant sign?
6. Why does Shechem agree to the circumcision condition, and what does this reveal about his feelings for Dinah?
7. What does the violent response of Simeon and Levi reveal about their perspective on justice and revenge?
8. Why do the other sons of Jacob join in the plunder of the city?
9. How does Jacob react to his sons' actions, and what does this tell us about his fear and concern for his family's safety?
10. How does the final exchange between Jacob and his sons reflect their divergent views on justice and honor?
11. How can we relate the events of this chapter to the present-day issues of sexual abuse and consent?
12. How does this passage challenge us to address our own anger and desire for retribution?
13. What does this story teach about the danger of deceit, even when used to achieve a seemingly justified end?
14. How should we as Christians react to injustice, according to this chapter and the broader biblical message?
15. How can we practice empathy and understanding when confronted with varying perspectives within our family or community, as Jacob and his sons did?
16. How might this story have turned out differently if Jacob and his sons had sought God's guidance in addressing the situation?
17. What lessons can we learn from Shechem's impulsiveness and lack of respect for Dinah's dignity?
18. How does the aftermath of Simeon and Levi's revenge serve as a warning about the long-term consequences of our actions?
19. How does this chapter shed light on the societal norms of that time, particularly regarding women's rights and the value of human life?
20. How can we, as modern-day Christians, balance the pursuit of justice with the call to love and forgiveness?
Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions
