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
This phrase introduces a conditional statement, highlighting the negotiation between Jacob's sons and the men of Shechem. The Hebrew root for "agree" is "אבה" (abah), which implies a willingness or consent. This reflects the cultural and historical context of ancient Near Eastern treaties and agreements, where mutual consent was crucial for peace and alliances. The emphasis on agreement underscores the importance of unity and shared values in forming relationships, a principle that resonates throughout Scripture.

to be circumcised
Circumcision, from the Hebrew "מול" (mul), was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants (Genesis 17:10-14). It symbolized a commitment to God and set the Israelites apart from other nations. In this context, the demand for circumcision was not just a physical act but a call for the Shechemites to align themselves spiritually and culturally with Jacob's family. This highlights the theme of holiness and separation unto God, a recurring motif in the Bible that calls believers to live distinctively in the world.

then we will take our sister and go
The phrase "take our sister and go" reflects the protective and familial loyalty of Jacob's sons towards Dinah. The Hebrew word for "take" is "לקח" (laqach), which can mean to seize or to receive. This indicates a decisive action, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The mention of "our sister" underscores the familial bond and the responsibility to protect and uphold family honor. This reflects the biblical principle of family as a foundational unit of society, where members are called to support and defend one another.

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.