Genesis 34:21

"These men are at peace with us. Let them live and trade in our land; indeed, it is large enough for them. Let us take their daughters in marriage and give our daughters to them.

Study Bible

These men are peaceful toward us
The phrase "These men are peaceful" reflects the perception of the Hivites towards Jacob and his sons. The Hebrew word for "peaceful" is "שָׁלֵם" (shalem), which is related to "shalom," meaning peace, completeness, or welfare. This indicates a desire for harmonious relations and mutual benefit. Historically, peace treaties and alliances were common in the ancient Near East, often sealed by intermarriage and trade agreements. The Hivites' statement suggests a willingness to integrate and coexist, highlighting the importance of peace and diplomacy in maintaining societal stability.

Let them live and trade in the land
The invitation to "live and trade" signifies an openness to economic and social integration. The Hebrew word for "trade" is "סָחַר" (sachar), which implies commerce and exchange. In the ancient world, trade was a vital component of survival and prosperity, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas. The Hivites' proposal reflects a recognition of the potential benefits of such interactions, emphasizing the value of economic cooperation and the sharing of resources.

indeed, the land has plenty of room for them
The phrase "the land has plenty of room" suggests an abundance of resources and space, indicating that the Hivites saw no immediate threat of scarcity or conflict over territory. The Hebrew word "רַחַב" (rachab) means spacious or wide, conveying a sense of generosity and hospitality. This openness to sharing the land underscores the biblical principle of stewardship and the belief that God's creation is sufficient for all when managed wisely and justly.

We can marry their daughters, and they can marry ours
The proposal for intermarriage is a significant cultural and social gesture. In ancient times, marriage was not only a personal union but also a means of forming alliances and ensuring peace between different groups. The Hebrew word for "marry" is "לָקַח" (laqach), meaning to take or receive, indicating a formal and binding agreement. This mutual exchange of daughters in marriage symbolizes a deep level of trust and commitment to unity, reflecting the biblical theme of reconciliation and the breaking down of barriers between peoples.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Hamor
The father of Shechem, a Hivite prince, who seeks to make peace with Jacob's family after his son defiles Dinah.

3. Jacob
The patriarch of the Israelite tribes, whose daughter Dinah is central to the events of this chapter.

4. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, whose defilement by Shechem sets off the events of Genesis 34.

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

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Compromise
The proposal by Hamor and Shechem to intermarry with Jacob's family represents a potential compromise of faith and values. Believers must be cautious about forming alliances that could lead to spiritual compromise.

The Importance of Discernment
Jacob's family is faced with a decision that requires discernment. In our lives, we must seek God's wisdom to navigate complex situations and relationships.

The Call to Holiness
The account underscores the call for God's people to remain distinct and holy, avoiding entanglements that could lead to moral and spiritual decline.

The Role of Peace and Reconciliation
While peace is a noble pursuit, it should not come at the expense of righteousness. True peace aligns with God's will and purposes.

Trusting God's Promises
Despite the challenges and conflicts, believers are reminded to trust in God's promises and His plan for their lives, as seen in the broader account of Genesis.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are the potential risks and benefits of the proposal made by Hamor and Shechem in Genesis 34:21, and how can we apply this to decisions we face today?

2. How does the history of Shechem as a place of covenant and conflict inform our understanding of this passage?

3. In what ways does the warning in Exodus 34:12-16 about making covenants with the inhabitants of the land relate to the events of Genesis 34?

4. How can 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 guide us in forming relationships and partnerships in our own lives?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our pursuit of peace does not lead to compromising our faith and values?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:6-7
Shechem is first mentioned as a place where God appeared to Abram, promising the land to his descendants, highlighting its significance in God's covenant.

Exodus 34:12-16
Warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which connects to the potential dangers of intermarriage and assimilation seen in Genesis 34.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18
Discusses the importance of not being unequally yoked with unbelievers, which can be related to the proposed intermarriages in Genesis 34:21.