Aske mee neuer so much dowrie and gift, and I will giue according as yee shall say vnto mee: but giue me the damsell to wife. Genesis 34:12 (KJV)
The verse belongs to the narrative of Genesis 34, which recounts the tragic incident involving Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah, and Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite. The chapter records that Dinah was violated by Shechem, an act that ignited deep grief and outrage among Jacob’s sons, who saw the deed as a disgrace to their sister’s honor.
In the aftermath, Shechem approaches his father Hamor and asks him to speak with Jacob on his behalf. He then addresses Jacob directly, pleading for the right to marry Dinah. Shechem promises to give “never so much dowry and gift” as Jacob and his sons may demand, insisting only that the damsel be given to him as a wife. The text highlights that in ancient Near Eastern societies, including Israel, marriage customarily involved the exchange of dowries or gifts between families. Accordingly, Shechem specifies a substantial offering—gold, a thousand pieces of silver, and livestock—to demonstrate his sincerity and to seek Jacob’s approval.
The brothers’ reaction is one of fierce anger. Their grief over Dinah’s violation fuels a desire for justice, and the narrative underscores the severity of Shechem’s transgression. The chapter raises complex moral and ethical questions concerning justice, vengeance, and the treatment of women. It serves as a reminder that compromising one’s values or disregarding the dignity and well‑being of others can lead to grave repercussions.
Overall, Genesis 34:12‑14 records Shechem’s attempt to make amends for his wrongdoing by offering marriage to Dinah together with a generous dowry. Yet the subsequent events reveal the deep‑seated anger of Jacob’s sons and set in motion further consequences that underscore the seriousness of the original offense.
