What is the meaning of Genesis 34:20? So Hamor and his son Shechem Hamor, the Hivite ruler, and his son Shechem step into the narrative already burdened by Shechem’s violation of Dinah (Genesis 34:1–4). Their united appearance underscores a calculated family alliance, intent on turning sin into social contract. Like Ahab and Jezebel maneuvering for Naboth’s vineyard (1 Kings 21:1–16), father and son present a single front, hoping position and persuasion will override righteousness. Note the ironic contrast with Abraham and Isaac’s earlier father-son obedience (Genesis 22:7-8). Where Abraham led his son up a mountain in faith, Hamor leads his son to a city meeting in deceit. went to the gate of their city The city gate functioned as courthouse, council chamber, and marketplace (Ruth 4:1–11; Deuteronomy 21:18–21; Proverbs 31:23). Business transactions, civic rulings, and covenant agreements happened there in full view. By choosing this venue, Hamor and Shechem seek legitimacy for an immoral proposal, just as Absalom stood at the gate to steal Israel’s loyalty (2 Samuel 15:2–6). The gate reminds us that public approval never sanctifies private sin; crowds can applaud what God condemns (Luke 23:18-23). and addressed the men of their city The speech to “the men” reveals motive: enlist the whole community so every male agrees to circumcision, removing any resistance (Genesis 34:21-23). They frame the deal as economic gain—“Their livestock and their property will become ours”—echoing the greed-tinged unity at Babel (Genesis 11:4). The pattern repeats: fleshly desire cloaked in communal benefit. Compare Jezebel’s use of false witnesses to justify Naboth’s death (1 Kings 21:9-10) or Demetrius rallying craftsmen against Paul for profit’s sake (Acts 19:24-27). The men listen, but their consent positions them for judgment when Simeon and Levi strike (Genesis 34:25-29). Agreement with unrighteousness invites disaster (Proverbs 1:10-19; 2 Peter 2:18-19). summary Genesis 34:20 shows a father and son exploiting civic structures to legitimize sin. The gate’s authority, the united front, and the persuasive speech illustrate how wickedness often seeks communal endorsement. Scripture warns that public consensus cannot shield rebellion from divine justice, urging believers to discern truth over majority, righteousness over profit. |
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