Genesis 34:18

Their offer seemed good to Hamor and his son Shechem.

Study Bible

Their offer seemed good:
This phrase indicates that the proposal made by Jacob's sons was agreeable to Hamor and Shechem. In the context of Genesis 34, Jacob's sons had deceitfully proposed that the men of Shechem undergo circumcision as a condition for intermarriage. The acceptance of this offer highlights the cultural and economic motivations of Hamor and Shechem, who saw the potential for increased wealth and alliances through intermarriage with Jacob's family. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of forming alliances through marriage.

to Hamor and his son Shechem:
Hamor was the Hivite ruler of the city of Shechem, and his son Shechem was the prince who had defiled Dinah, Jacob's daughter. The mention of both father and son underscores the familial and political dynamics at play. Shechem's desire to marry Dinah, despite his previous actions, suggests a complex interplay of personal desire and political strategy. The city of Shechem, located in the region of Canaan, was a significant urban center in biblical times, often associated with key events in Israel's history, such as the covenant renewal under Joshua (Joshua 24:1-25). The willingness of Hamor and Shechem to accept the terms proposed by Jacob's sons also foreshadows the tragic outcome of the narrative, where the deceit leads to violence and retribution.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hamor
The father of Shechem, a Hivite prince. He is involved in negotiating with Jacob's sons after his son Shechem defiled Dinah.

2. Shechem
The son of Hamor, who defiled Dinah, Jacob's daughter. He is deeply infatuated with Dinah and seeks to marry her.

3. Jacob's Sons
They are the brothers of Dinah, who are negotiating with Hamor and Shechem. They are deceitful in their agreement, planning to avenge their sister.

4. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, who was defiled by Shechem. Her situation is the catalyst for the events in this chapter.

5. The City of Shechem
A significant location in the account, representing the broader cultural and moral conflict between Jacob's family and the Canaanites.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
The agreement seemed good to Hamor and Shechem, but it was rooted in deceit. Sin often appears attractive but leads to destruction.

The Importance of Integrity
Jacob's sons lacked integrity in their dealings. As Christians, we are called to be people of our word, reflecting God's truthfulness.

Guarding Against Unequal Alliances
The account warns against forming alliances with those who do not share our values, as it can lead to compromise and conflict.

The Consequences of Rash Decisions
Shechem's impulsive actions led to devastating consequences. We must seek God's wisdom before making significant decisions.

The Role of Forgiveness and Reconciliation
While the chapter does not explicitly address forgiveness, the broader biblical account encourages us to seek reconciliation rather than revenge.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the deceptive agreement between Jacob's sons and Hamor reflect the broader theme of sin's deceitfulness in the Bible?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our actions and agreements reflect integrity and truthfulness in our daily lives?

3. How does the warning against unequal alliances in 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 apply to our relationships today?

4. What can we learn from Shechem's impulsive actions about the importance of seeking God's guidance before making decisions?

5. How can we apply the principles of forgiveness and reconciliation in situations where we have been wronged, as opposed to seeking revenge?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:5-7
This passage provides insight into the future consequences of Simeon and Levi's actions in Genesis 34, as Jacob prophesies over his sons.

Exodus 34:12-16
These verses warn against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which is relevant to the deceptive agreement made by Jacob's sons.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18
This New Testament passage speaks to the importance of not being unequally yoked with unbelievers, echoing the dangers of intermingling with the Canaanites.