Genesis 34:12

Demand a high dowry and an expensive gift, and I will give you whatever you ask. Only give me the girl as my wife!"

Study Bible

Demand a high dowry and an expensive gift
In the ancient Near Eastern culture, a dowry was a customary payment made by the groom or his family to the bride's family. This practice was not only a financial transaction but also a way to formalize the marriage agreement and demonstrate the groom's ability to provide for the bride. The mention of a "high dowry and an expensive gift" indicates the seriousness of the proposal and the desire to compensate for the wrongdoing committed by Shechem. This reflects the cultural norms of the time, where marriages often involved negotiations and financial arrangements. The concept of a dowry is seen in other biblical accounts, such as the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 24:53) and Jacob's service for Rachel and Leah (Genesis 29:18-20).

and I will give you whatever you ask
This phrase underscores the desperation and willingness of Shechem and his father Hamor to secure Dinah as Shechem's wife. It highlights the extent to which they are prepared to go to make amends and legitimize the union. This offer of open-ended negotiation is significant, as it shows the weight of the offense and the cultural importance of restoring honor through marriage. The willingness to meet any demand parallels other biblical instances where individuals offer significant sacrifices or commitments to achieve reconciliation or favor, such as King Saul's offer to David (1 Samuel 18:25).

Only give me the girl as my wife!
Shechem's insistence on marrying Dinah despite the circumstances reveals the depth of his desire and possibly his infatuation with her. This plea is central to the narrative, as it sets the stage for the subsequent actions of Dinah's brothers. The request for marriage, despite the violation, reflects the cultural expectation that marriage could rectify such situations. However, it also highlights the tension between cultural practices and moral justice. The demand for Dinah as a wife can be contrasted with other biblical narratives where marriage is sought under different circumstances, such as Boaz's honorable intentions towards Ruth (Ruth 3:11-13).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shechem
The son of Hamor the Hivite, who defiled Dinah, Jacob's daughter. He is deeply infatuated with Dinah and seeks to marry her, offering to pay any dowry.

2. Hamor
The father of Shechem and a Hivite prince. He negotiates with Jacob and his sons for Dinah's marriage to Shechem.

3. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, who is defiled by Shechem. Her situation becomes the catalyst for the events in Genesis 34.

4. Jacob
The patriarch of the family, father of Dinah. He is involved in the negotiations with Hamor and Shechem.

5. Simeon and Levi
Sons of Jacob and brothers of Dinah, who later take violent action against Shechem and the city in response to Dinah's defilement.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Family Honor
In ancient cultures, family honor was paramount. The actions of Shechem and the response of Dinah's brothers highlight the lengths to which families would go to protect their honor.

The Role of Dowries
Dowries were a significant part of marriage negotiations, serving as compensation and a sign of commitment. This reflects the cultural practices of the time and the value placed on marriage agreements.

Consequences of Sin
The defilement of Dinah and the subsequent actions of her brothers demonstrate the far-reaching consequences of sin, affecting not just individuals but entire communities.

Negotiation and Reconciliation
The attempt by Hamor and Shechem to negotiate for Dinah's hand in marriage shows the potential for reconciliation, even after grievous wrongs, though it ultimately fails in this account.

God's Justice and Human Actions
The account invites reflection on human justice versus divine justice, as the actions of Simeon and Levi, though understandable, lead to further violence and deceit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the cultural practice of dowries in Genesis 34:12 compare to modern practices of marriage and family negotiations?

2. In what ways does the account of Dinah and Shechem challenge us to consider the importance of family honor and integrity today?

3. How do the actions of Simeon and Levi reflect human attempts at justice, and what can we learn about seeking God's justice in our lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the account of Dinah and other biblical accounts of family conflict and resolution?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Genesis 34 to situations of conflict and reconciliation in our own communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:16-17
This passage discusses the laws regarding a man who seduces a virgin, emphasizing the importance of a dowry and the father's consent, similar to the situation in Genesis 34.

Deuteronomy 22:28-29
These verses outline the consequences and responsibilities of a man who violates a virgin, including the payment of a dowry, reflecting the cultural and legal context of Genesis 34.

2 Samuel 13
The account of Amnon and Tamar parallels the violation of Dinah, highlighting themes of family dishonor and the consequences of such actions.