Genesis 34:11

Then Shechem said to Dinah's father and brothers, "Grant me this favor, and I will give you whatever you ask.

Study Bible

Then Shechem said
The narrative introduces Shechem, a Hivite prince, who speaks directly to Dinah's family. The Hebrew root for "said" is אָמַר (amar), which often implies a declaration or a plea. In this context, Shechem's words are not just a casual conversation but a significant appeal, reflecting the gravity of the situation. Historically, this moment is pivotal as it sets the stage for the unfolding events between Shechem and Jacob's family.

to Dinah’s father and brothers
This phrase highlights the patriarchal structure of ancient Near Eastern societies, where the father and brothers held authority over family matters. Dinah, as a daughter and sister, is represented by her male relatives. The mention of "father and brothers" underscores the collective familial responsibility and honor, which were central to Hebrew culture. The family unit was the primary social structure, and any affront to it was taken seriously.

Let me find favor in your eyes
The phrase "find favor" is derived from the Hebrew חֵן (chen), meaning grace or favor. Shechem's request is a plea for acceptance and reconciliation. In biblical terms, finding favor often implies a desire for peace and goodwill. This request is significant as it shows Shechem's acknowledgment of the wrong done and his attempt to make amends, albeit through material compensation.

and I will give you whatever you ask
This promise reflects the ancient practice of bride price or dowry, where a suitor would offer gifts or compensation to the bride's family. The phrase indicates Shechem's willingness to go to great lengths to secure Dinah as his wife. It also reveals the transactional nature of marriage negotiations in ancient times, where material wealth could influence familial decisions. However, this offer also foreshadows the tension between material compensation and moral justice, a theme that resonates throughout the narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shechem
The son of Hamor the Hivite, a prince of the land. He is infatuated with Dinah and seeks to marry her after having defiled her.

2. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, who is taken and violated by Shechem.

3. Jacob
The patriarch of the family, father of Dinah, and a key figure in the unfolding events.

4. Hamor
The father of Shechem, who attempts to negotiate with Jacob and his sons for Dinah's marriage to Shechem.

5. The City of Shechem
A significant location in the account, representing a place of both opportunity and conflict for Jacob's family.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Shechem's actions demonstrate how sin can lead to complex and painful consequences, affecting not just the individual but entire families and communities.

The Importance of Family Honor
In the cultural context of Genesis, family honor was paramount. The actions of Shechem and the response of Dinah's brothers highlight the lengths to which people would go to protect or restore that honor.

Negotiation and Reconciliation
The attempt by Hamor and Shechem to negotiate with Jacob's family shows the human desire for reconciliation, even when it is pursued through flawed means.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Human Actions
Despite the sinful actions of individuals, God's overarching plan and sovereignty remain intact, guiding the account of His people.

The Role of Justice and Mercy
The account challenges readers to consider the balance between justice and mercy, especially in situations involving deep personal and familial hurt.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Shechem's offer in Genesis 34:11 reflect his understanding of reconciliation and restitution? How does this compare to biblical principles of repentance and forgiveness?

2. In what ways does the account of Dinah and Shechem challenge us to consider the impact of our actions on our family and community?

3. How can the response of Dinah's brothers inform our understanding of righteous anger versus sinful vengeance?

4. What lessons can we learn from the negotiations between Hamor and Jacob's family about dealing with conflict in our own lives?

5. How does the account of Genesis 34 encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when human actions seem to lead to chaos and disorder?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34:1-10
Provides context for Shechem's actions and the initial response of Jacob's family.

Genesis 49:5-7
Reflects on the violent response of Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brothers, to Shechem's actions.

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
Warns against intermarriage with the Canaanites, which is relevant to the negotiations between Jacob's family and Shechem.

2 Samuel 13
The account of Amnon and Tamar, which parallels the violation and subsequent family conflict seen in Genesis 34.