Genesis 34:3

And his soul was drawn to Dinah, the daughter of Jacob. He loved the young girl and spoke to her tenderly.

Study Bible

And his soul was drawn to Dinah, the daughter of Jacob.
This phrase indicates a deep emotional attachment, suggesting more than mere physical attraction. The term "soul" implies a profound connection, which in biblical terms often denotes the seat of emotions and desires. Dinah, as the daughter of Jacob, is part of the covenant family, which adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. Jacob, also known as Israel, is a patriarch whose descendants are central to God's promises. The mention of Dinah highlights the vulnerability of women in ancient Near Eastern societies, where family honor and social standing were closely tied to the actions of female members.

He loved the young girl
The use of "loved" here is significant, as it suggests a genuine affection, albeit in a context that is troubling due to the preceding events of the chapter. This love is complicated by the cultural and historical setting, where marriages were often arranged and love was not always the primary factor. The term "young girl" emphasizes Dinah's youth and innocence, which contrasts with the actions taken against her. This phrase can be compared to other biblical instances where love is professed, such as Jacob's love for Rachel, highlighting the complexities and sometimes tragic nature of love in biblical narratives.

and spoke to her tenderly.
Speaking tenderly suggests an attempt to comfort or win favor, indicating a desire for reconciliation or acceptance. This phrase can be seen as an attempt to mitigate the harshness of previous actions, reflecting a common biblical theme of seeking forgiveness or restoration. The act of speaking tenderly is reminiscent of other biblical figures who use gentle words to convey love or seek peace, such as Boaz with Ruth. It also contrasts with the often harsh realities of ancient life, where power dynamics and social structures could overshadow personal relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, Dinah is the central female figure in this account. Her encounter with Shechem sets off a series of events that impact her family and the surrounding community.

2. Shechem
The son of Hamor the Hivite, Shechem is the man who becomes infatuated with Dinah. His actions towards her are pivotal in the unfolding account.

3. Jacob
The patriarch of the family, Jacob is Dinah's father. His response to the events involving Dinah and Shechem is crucial in understanding the family dynamics and cultural context.

4. Hamor
The father of Shechem, Hamor plays a role in the negotiations and interactions between his family and Jacob's family following the incident with Dinah.

5. Shechem (Place)
The city named after Hamor's son, it is the setting for the events of Genesis 34. It is a significant location in the biblical account, often associated with covenantal events.

Teaching Points

The Nature of True Love
True love respects and honors the other person, seeking their well-being above selfish desires. Shechem's actions, though described as love, lacked the selflessness and respect that characterize biblical love.

The Consequences of Sin
Sinful actions, especially those that violate others, have far-reaching consequences. The events following Shechem's actions demonstrate the ripple effect of sin on families and communities.

The Importance of Family and Community Response
How families and communities respond to sin and injustice is crucial. Jacob's initial silence and his sons' subsequent actions highlight the need for righteous and measured responses.

Cultural Context and God's Standards
While cultural norms may vary, God's standards for behavior and relationships remain constant. Believers are called to uphold these standards, even when they conflict with societal practices.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Shechem's feelings towards Dinah in Genesis 34:3 compare to the biblical definition of love found in 1 Corinthians 13?

2. In what ways do the events of Genesis 34 illustrate the consequences of failing to adhere to God's standards for relationships and justice?

3. How can the account of Dinah and Shechem inform our understanding of the importance of family and community support in times of crisis?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's response to the situation, and how can we apply these lessons to our own leadership and decision-making?

5. How does the cultural context of Genesis 34 help us understand the challenges of living out biblical principles in a world with differing values?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 29: Leah and Jacob
Understanding the family dynamics, including Jacob's marriages to Leah and Rachel, provides context for Dinah's place in the family.

Deuteronomy 22:28-29
This passage discusses laws regarding sexual relations and marriage, offering insight into the cultural and legal backdrop of Dinah's account.

2 Samuel 13: Tamar and Amnon
The account of Tamar and Amnon parallels Dinah's experience, highlighting themes of violation and family response.

Ephesians 5:25-33
This New Testament passage on love and marriage contrasts with Shechem's actions, providing a biblical standard for relationships.