Topical Bible: Self-Will and Stubbornness: Simeon and Levi

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Topical Encyclopedia

Simeon and Levi, two of the twelve sons of Jacob, are notable figures in the Bible whose actions exemplify self-will and stubbornness. Their account is primarily recounted in the Book of Genesis, where their impetuous and violent behavior is highlighted, particularly in the incident involving their sister Dinah.

The Incident at Shechem

The narrative of Simeon and Levi's self-will and stubbornness is most prominently displayed in Genesis 34. Dinah, their sister, is defiled by Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite. In response, Shechem expresses a desire to marry Dinah, and his father Hamor negotiates with Jacob and his sons for her hand in marriage. However, Simeon and Levi, driven by anger and a desire for vengeance, deceitfully agree to the marriage on the condition that all the males in Shechem be circumcised.

Genesis 34:25-26 recounts their subsequent actions: "Three days later, while they were still in pain, two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brothers, took their swords, came upon the unsuspecting city, and killed every male. They killed Hamor and his son Shechem with their swords, took Dinah from Shechem’s house, and went away."

This act of violence, driven by their self-will and stubbornness, was not sanctioned by their father Jacob, who later rebukes them for bringing trouble upon his household. Their actions demonstrate a disregard for the broader consequences and a focus on personal vendetta.

Jacob's Prophetic Rebuke

Jacob's disapproval of Simeon and Levi's actions is further emphasized in his prophetic blessings and rebukes to his sons in Genesis 49. In verses 5-7 , Jacob declares: "Simeon and Levi are brothers; their swords are weapons of violence. Let me not enter their council; let me not join their assembly, for they have killed men in their anger, and hamstrung oxen as they pleased. Cursed be their anger, for it is fierce; and their wrath, for it is cruel! I will disperse them in Jacob and scatter them in Israel."

Jacob's words reflect the consequences of their self-will and stubbornness. Their fierce anger and cruelty lead to a prophetic dispersion among the tribes of Israel, indicating a loss of unity and strength that could have been theirs.

Tribal Consequences

The tribes of Simeon and Levi experienced the repercussions of their forefathers' actions. The tribe of Simeon eventually became one of the smaller tribes, absorbed into the territory of Judah. The Levites, while set apart for priestly duties, were scattered throughout Israel without a designated inheritance of land, fulfilling Jacob's prophecy of dispersion.

Lessons on Self-Will and Stubbornness

The account of Simeon and Levi serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-will and stubbornness. Their account illustrates how unchecked anger and a refusal to submit to divine guidance can lead to destructive outcomes. The Bible consistently warns against such traits, emphasizing the importance of humility, obedience, and seeking God's will above personal desires.

In summary, Simeon and Levi's actions provide a vivid example of the consequences of self-will and stubbornness, both for individuals and their descendants. Their legacy serves as a reminder of the need for restraint and submission to God's authority in all aspects of life.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 49:6
O my soul, come not you into their secret; to their assembly, my honor, be not you united: for in their anger they slew a man, and in their self-will they dig down a wall.
Torrey's Topical Textbook