Genesis 33:19

And the plot of ground where he pitched his tent, he purchased from the sons of Hamor, Shechem's father, for a hundred pieces of silver.

Study Bible

And he purchased
The act of purchasing land signifies a formal and legal transaction, indicating Jacob's intention to establish a permanent presence in the land. The Hebrew word for "purchased" is "קָנָה" (qanah), which can also mean to acquire or possess. This act of buying land is significant as it reflects Jacob's commitment to God's promise of the land to his descendants, showing faith in the covenant.

a parcel of land
The term "parcel" refers to a specific portion or piece of land. In Hebrew, "חֶלְקַת" (cheleq) implies a division or allotment, suggesting that this was a designated area. This purchase is a tangible expression of Jacob's claim to the land promised by God, symbolizing a step towards the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant.

where he had pitched his tent
This phrase indicates that Jacob had already settled temporarily in this location. The act of pitching a tent is often associated with nomadic life, but here it transitions to a more permanent settlement. It reflects Jacob's journey from a wanderer to a settler, aligning with God's promise to give his descendants a homeland.

from the sons of Hamor
Hamor is identified as the father of Shechem, and his sons are the local inhabitants from whom Jacob buys the land. The name "Hamor" means "donkey" in Hebrew, which might imply strength or stubbornness. This transaction with the sons of Hamor shows a peaceful negotiation and coexistence with the local Canaanite population, which is significant in the context of the patriarchal narratives.

Shechem’s father
Shechem is both a person and a place, indicating the importance of this location. As the father of Shechem, Hamor represents the leadership or authority in the region. The mention of Shechem ties this event to future significant biblical events, as Shechem becomes a central location in Israel's history.

for a hundred pieces of silver
The specific mention of "a hundred pieces of silver" (Hebrew: "קְשִׂיטָה" - kesitah) indicates the value and seriousness of the transaction. Silver was a common medium of exchange, and the amount suggests a fair and substantial price for the land. This detail underscores the legitimacy and fairness of the purchase, contrasting with other biblical narratives where land is taken by force or deception.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The patriarch who purchased the land. This act signifies his intention to settle and establish a presence in the land promised to his forefathers.

2. Sons of Hamor
The local inhabitants from whom Jacob bought the land. Hamor was the father of Shechem, a significant city in the region.

3. Shechem
A city in Canaan, which later becomes a significant location in Israel's history. It is a place of both conflict and covenant.

4. Plot of Ground
The specific piece of land Jacob purchased, indicating a legal and peaceful transaction, contrasting with previous conflicts over land in Genesis.

5. Hundred Pieces of Silver
The currency used in the transaction, showing the value and legitimacy of the purchase.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Jacob's purchase of land in Canaan reflects his faith in God's promise to give this land to his descendants. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises, even when fulfillment seems distant.

Peaceful Transactions
Jacob's legal purchase contrasts with previous conflicts over land, teaching the importance of integrity and peaceful dealings in our interactions.

Legacy and Heritage
The land purchase signifies the beginning of a legacy for Jacob's descendants. Believers are reminded to consider the spiritual and physical legacies they leave behind.

God's Sovereignty in History
The transaction is a small part of God's larger plan for Israel. It encourages believers to see their lives as part of God's sovereign plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's purchase of land in Shechem demonstrate his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this faith in our own lives today?

2. What does the peaceful nature of Jacob's transaction with the sons of Hamor teach us about resolving conflicts and conducting our affairs with integrity?

3. In what ways does the purchase of this land foreshadow future events in the Bible, and how does this encourage us to trust in God's long-term plans?

4. How can we ensure that the legacies we leave behind are aligned with God's purposes, as seen in Jacob's establishment of a presence in Canaan?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a decision that required faith in God's promises. How did the outcome strengthen your trust in Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:6-7
Connects to God's promise to Abraham about the land, showing the fulfillment of God's covenant as Jacob establishes a foothold in Canaan.

Joshua 24:32
Relates to the burial of Joseph's bones in Shechem, indicating the long-term significance of this land for the descendants of Jacob.

John 4:5-6
Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well in Shechem, highlighting the enduring legacy of Jacob's purchase.