Genesis 34:4

So Shechem told his father Hamor, "Get me this girl as a wife."

Study Bible

Get me
The phrase "get me" reflects a sense of entitlement and demand. In the Hebrew text, the verb used here is "קַח" (laqach), which means to take or to acquire. This word often implies a forceful or authoritative action, suggesting Shechem's assertive and perhaps impulsive nature. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, marriages were often arranged by families, and the use of this verb underscores the patriarchal structure where the son commands the father to act on his behalf.

this girl
The term "this girl" refers to Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah. The Hebrew word for "girl" is "נַעֲרָה" (na'arah), which can mean a young woman or maiden. This term highlights Dinah's youth and vulnerability in this narrative. Historically, women in biblical times had limited autonomy, and their identities were often tied to their familial relationships. The use of "this" indicates a specific focus on Dinah, reducing her identity to an object of desire rather than a person with agency.

as a wife
The phrase "as a wife" indicates Shechem's intention to formalize his relationship with Dinah through marriage. The Hebrew word for wife is "אִשָּׁה" (ishah), which can also mean woman. In the biblical context, marriage was a covenantal relationship, often involving negotiations and agreements between families. This phrase suggests Shechem's desire to legitimize his actions, albeit after the fact, by seeking to marry Dinah. It reflects the cultural norms where marriage was a means to secure alliances and social standing.

he told his father
This phrase highlights the patriarchal family structure, where the father, Hamor, holds the authority to negotiate and arrange marriages. The Hebrew verb "אָמַר" (amar) means to say or to speak, indicating a direct communication. In the historical context, fathers played a crucial role in the decision-making processes of their families, and Shechem's approach to his father underscores the expectation of paternal involvement in marital arrangements. This reflects the societal norms where family honor and alliances were paramount, and decisions were made collectively rather than individually.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shechem
The son of Hamor, a Hivite prince, who desires to marry Dinah after defiling her. His actions set off a chain of events that lead to conflict.

2. Hamor
The father of Shechem and a Hivite leader. He becomes involved in negotiations with Jacob's family following Shechem's actions.

3. Dinah
The daughter of Jacob and Leah, whose encounter with Shechem leads to significant familial and tribal tensions.

4. Jacob
The patriarch of the Israelite family, whose daughter Dinah is involved in the incident with Shechem.

5. Hivites
A Canaanite tribe living in the region, represented by Hamor and Shechem in this account.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sinful Desires
Shechem's desire for Dinah, driven by lust rather than love or respect, leads to devastating consequences for both families. This highlights the importance of controlling sinful desires and seeking God's guidance in relationships.

The Role of Parents in Guiding Relationships
Hamor's involvement in Shechem's request underscores the responsibility of parents to guide their children in making godly choices, especially in matters of marriage.

The Importance of Upholding God's Standards
The account serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's commands regarding relationships and marriage, as outlined in the Mosaic Law.

The Impact of Cultural Interactions
The account illustrates the potential dangers of cultural assimilation and the need for God's people to remain distinct and faithful to His commandments.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Shechem's request to his father reflect his character and priorities, and what can we learn from this about the nature of true love and respect in relationships?

2. In what ways does the involvement of Hamor in Shechem's request highlight the role of parents in guiding their children's choices, particularly in marriage?

3. How does the account of Shechem and Dinah serve as a warning against the dangers of intermarriage with those who do not share the same faith, as seen in other parts of Scripture?

4. What are the broader implications of this account for understanding the importance of maintaining cultural and spiritual distinctiveness as God's people?

5. How can we apply the lessons from this passage to modern-day relationships and the challenges of maintaining godly standards in a secular world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34:1-3
Provides context for Shechem's desire, detailing his initial encounter with Dinah and his subsequent actions.

Exodus 34:16
Warns against intermarriage with the Canaanites, which is relevant to the situation between Shechem and Dinah.

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
Reinforces the prohibition against marrying foreign women, highlighting the potential for leading Israel away from God.

2 Samuel 13
The account of Amnon and Tamar, which parallels the themes of defilement and familial conflict.