Genesis 34:7

When Jacob's sons heard what had happened, they returned from the field. They were filled with grief and fury, because Shechem had committed an outrage in Israel by lying with Jacob's daughter--a thing that should not be done.

Study Bible

Jacob’s sons
The phrase "Jacob’s sons" refers to the twelve sons of Jacob, who would later become the patriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. In the Hebrew context, the sons represent not just a family unit but the foundation of a nation. Their actions and reactions are pivotal in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history. The sons' response to the situation reflects the collective honor and responsibility they feel towards their family and future nation.

had come in from the field
This phrase indicates that Jacob’s sons were engaged in agricultural work, a common occupation in ancient times. The field represents their livelihood and daily life, which is abruptly interrupted by the grievous news. This setting underscores the normalcy of their lives before the disruption, highlighting the gravity of the situation they are about to confront.

heard about it
The act of hearing in the Hebrew tradition often implies more than just receiving information; it suggests a call to action. The sons' hearing of the incident is not passive; it demands a response. This reflects the cultural importance of family honor and the expectation of defending it.

deeply grieved
The Hebrew root for "grieved" conveys a profound emotional pain, akin to mourning. This grief is not just personal but communal, reflecting the collective sorrow of the family and the affront to their honor. It emphasizes the depth of the violation against Dinah and the family.

very angry
The anger of Jacob’s sons is intense and righteous, stemming from a sense of justice and protection for their sister. In the Hebrew context, anger is often associated with a zeal for righteousness and a desire to correct wrongs. This anger propels the narrative forward, leading to the subsequent actions of the sons.

Shechem had committed an outrage
The term "outrage" in Hebrew is a strong word denoting a disgraceful act that violates social and moral boundaries. Shechem’s act is not just a personal offense but a societal one, challenging the very fabric of the community’s values and laws.

against Israel
This phrase is significant as it marks one of the early uses of "Israel" to denote the family of Jacob. The outrage is not just against Dinah but against the entire family, symbolizing an affront to the emerging nation of Israel. It highlights the collective identity and the shared responsibility of the family members.

by lying with Jacob’s daughter
The act of lying with Dinah is described in terms that emphasize the violation and lack of consent. In the cultural and scriptural context, this act is a severe breach of moral and social conduct, underscoring the gravity of Shechem’s sin.

a thing that should not be done
This phrase reflects the moral and ethical standards of the time, which are rooted in the divine law and cultural norms. It underscores the universality of the moral outrage, suggesting that such acts are inherently wrong and unacceptable in any society. The phrase serves as a moral indictment of Shechem’s actions, reinforcing the narrative’s emphasis on justice and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob's Sons
The sons of Jacob, who were working in the field when they heard about the incident involving their sister, Dinah. They are deeply grieved and angry, reflecting their protective nature and familial loyalty.

2. Shechem
The man who committed the act against Dinah. He is a Hivite prince, and his actions are described as an outrage, highlighting the severity of his offense.

3. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, who is the victim of Shechem's actions. Her experience is central to the account and the subsequent response of her brothers.

4. Israel
Refers to the family and descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel. The term underscores the collective identity and moral expectations of Jacob's family.

5. The Outrage
The act committed by Shechem is described as an outrage, indicating a violation of moral and social norms. The Hebrew word used here, (nebalah), often denotes a disgraceful or foolish act.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Family Honor
The reaction of Jacob's sons underscores the importance of family honor and the protective role of family members. In today's context, this can translate to standing up for justice and protecting the vulnerable.

The Consequences of Sin
Shechem's actions lead to significant turmoil and violence. This serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of sin and the importance of adhering to God's moral standards.

Righteous Anger vs. Sinful Revenge
While the anger of Jacob's sons is understandable, their subsequent actions raise questions about the line between righteous anger and sinful revenge. Believers are called to seek justice in a way that aligns with God's righteousness.

The Value of Women in Scripture
Dinah's account, though tragic, highlights the need to value and protect women, recognizing their dignity and worth as created in the image of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the reaction of Jacob's sons to Dinah's situation reflect the cultural and familial values of their time, and how can we apply these values in a modern context?

2. In what ways does the account of Dinah and Shechem illustrate the consequences of sin, and how can we guard against similar pitfalls in our own lives?

3. How can we differentiate between righteous anger and sinful revenge, and what biblical principles can guide us in responding to injustice?

4. What does the account of Dinah teach us about the value and protection of women, and how can we advocate for these principles in our communities today?

5. How do the events in Genesis 34 connect with other biblical accounts about family, honor, and justice, and what lessons can we draw from these connections for our personal and communal lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:5-7
This passage later reflects on the violent response of Simeon and Levi, two of Jacob's sons, to the incident with Dinah, showing the long-term consequences of their actions.

Deuteronomy 22:25-27
Provides laws regarding sexual violence, emphasizing the protection of the victim and the seriousness of such offenses in Israelite society.

2 Samuel 13
The account of Amnon and Tamar parallels Dinah's account, highlighting themes of sexual violence, family honor, and the consequences of sin.