Genesis 34:17

But if you will not agree to be circumcised, then we will take our sister and go."

Study Bible

But if you will not agree to be circumcised
This phrase reflects the demand made by Jacob's sons to the men of Shechem. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham (Genesis 17:10-14). It was a physical mark of belonging to God's chosen people, Israel. The demand for circumcision here is not for spiritual reasons but as a pretext for the deceitful plan of Simeon and Levi. This reflects the tension between the Israelites and the surrounding Canaanite cultures, who did not practice circumcision. The demand also highlights the importance of covenantal identity and separation from pagan practices.

then we will take our sister and go.
This phrase indicates the ultimatum given by Jacob's sons. Dinah, their sister, had been defiled by Shechem, and her brothers sought to protect her honor and the family's integrity. The cultural context of the time placed a high value on family honor and purity, especially concerning women. The phrase underscores the seriousness of the situation and the brothers' determination to rectify the wrong done to Dinah. It also foreshadows the violent actions that Simeon and Levi would take, which would later have significant consequences for Jacob's family (Genesis 49:5-7). The mention of "our sister" emphasizes familial loyalty and the protective role of brothers in ancient Near Eastern societies.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shechem
A city in the land of Canaan, significant in biblical history as a place of covenant and conflict.

2. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, whose defilement by Shechem, the son of Hamor, sets off the events in this chapter.

3. Jacob
The patriarch of the Israelite tribes, father of Dinah, and a central figure in the account.

4. Simeon and Levi
Sons of Jacob and Leah, who take a leading role in the response to Dinah's defilement.

5. Circumcision
A covenantal sign given to Abraham and his descendants, here used as a condition for intermarriage with the Hivites.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Covenantal Identity
The demand for circumcision underscores the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as God's people. Believers today are called to uphold their identity in Christ amidst a secular world.

The Consequences of Compromise
The account warns against making compromises with the world that can lead to spiritual and moral downfall. Christians are encouraged to stand firm in their faith and values.

Righteous Anger and Justice
Simeon and Levi's response, though extreme, reflects a desire for justice. Believers must seek justice in a manner that aligns with God's righteousness and love.

Family and Community Responsibility
The brothers' actions highlight the responsibility of family and community in protecting and upholding the dignity of their members. Christians are called to support and protect one another in love.

The Role of Deception
The use of deception by Jacob's sons serves as a cautionary tale about the ethical implications of deceit, even when seeking justice. Believers are reminded to pursue truth and integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the demand for circumcision in Genesis 34:17 reflect the importance of maintaining a distinct covenantal identity, and how can Christians apply this principle today?

2. In what ways does the account of Genesis 34 warn against the dangers of compromise with the world, and how can believers guard against such compromises in their own lives?

3. Considering the actions of Simeon and Levi, how should Christians balance the pursuit of justice with the call to love and forgiveness?

4. What responsibilities do families and communities have in protecting their members, and how can the church fulfill this role in contemporary society?

5. How does the use of deception in this passage challenge us to consider the ethical implications of our actions, and what biblical principles can guide us in pursuing truth and integrity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 17
The institution of circumcision as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, highlighting its significance in the account.

Exodus 34
God's command to the Israelites not to make covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which provides a backdrop to the events in Genesis 34.

2 Corinthians 6
Paul's teaching on not being unequally yoked with unbelievers, which can be seen as a New Testament parallel to the concerns in Genesis 34.