Genesis 34:9

Intermarry with us; give us your daughters, and take our daughters for yourselves.

Study Bible

Intermarry with us;
This phrase reflects the proposal made by Hamor and Shechem to Jacob and his sons after the incident involving Dinah. In the ancient Near Eastern context, intermarriage was often a means of forming alliances and ensuring peace between different tribes or groups. However, for the Israelites, intermarriage with the Canaanites was discouraged due to the potential for leading them away from their covenant relationship with God (Exodus 34:16, Deuteronomy 7:3-4). This proposal can be seen as a test of the Israelites' commitment to their distinct identity and covenant obligations.

give us your daughters
The request to give daughters in marriage highlights the cultural practice of arranged marriages, which were common in biblical times. Daughters were often given in marriage to strengthen familial ties and alliances. This request also underscores the patriarchal nature of the society, where family heads made decisions regarding marriages. The giving of daughters to the Canaanites would have been seen as compromising the purity and distinctiveness of the Israelite lineage, which was meant to be set apart for God's purposes.

and take our daughters for yourselves.
This part of the proposal suggests a reciprocal arrangement, where the Israelites would also take Canaanite women as wives. Such intermarriage could lead to the assimilation of Israel into Canaanite culture and religious practices, which was contrary to God's command for Israel to remain separate and holy (Leviticus 20:26). The potential for idolatry and syncretism was a significant concern, as seen in later biblical narratives where intermarriage led to spiritual decline (e.g., Solomon's marriages in 1 Kings 11:1-4). This phrase also foreshadows the ongoing struggle for Israel to maintain its identity amidst surrounding nations.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Hamor
The father of Shechem, a Hivite prince, who proposes intermarriage between his people and Jacob's family.

3. Jacob
The patriarch of the Israelites, whose family is involved in the events of Genesis 34.

4. Dinah
Jacob's daughter, whose defilement by Shechem sets off the events of this chapter.

5. The Hivites
A Canaanite people living in the region, represented by Hamor and Shechem in this account.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Compromise
The proposal for intermarriage represents a temptation to compromise the distinctiveness of God's people. Believers today must be cautious of alliances that could lead them away from their faith.

Cultural Influence vs. Godly Influence
The account highlights the tension between cultural assimilation and maintaining a godly identity. Christians are called to be in the world but not of it, influencing rather than being influenced by secular culture.

The Importance of Obedience
God's commands regarding separation from pagan practices were meant to protect His people. Obedience to God's Word remains crucial for spiritual health and witness.

Family and Faith
The family unit is central to God's plan for His people. Decisions about marriage and family should be guided by faith and commitment to God's principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are the potential consequences of intermarriage with those who do not share the same faith, as seen in Genesis 34:9 and related scriptures?

2. How can Christians today apply the principle of being "in the world but not of it" in their daily lives?

3. In what ways can cultural pressures lead to compromises in our faith, and how can we guard against this?

4. How does the account of Dinah and the proposal of intermarriage challenge us to consider the influence of our relationships on our spiritual walk?

5. Reflect on a time when obedience to God's Word protected you from negative influences. How can this experience encourage you to remain faithful in challenging situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:16
Warns against intermarriage with the Canaanites, which could lead the Israelites away from God.

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
Prohibits intermarriage with foreign nations to prevent turning away from God.

2 Corinthians 6:14
Advises believers not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers, echoing the Old Testament warnings against intermarriage with those who do not follow God.