Genesis 34 tells the troubling story of Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah, and her encounter with Shechem, a prince of the Hivites. As the story unfolds, Dinah ventures out to visit the local women, but Shechem, consumed by desire, forcibly takes her and violates her. Deeply angered, Dinah’s brothers, Simeon and Levi, deceive Shechem and his father, Hamor, into believing they will permit a marriage between the two families. However, when the Hivites agree to be circumcised, Simeon and Levi seize the opportunity for revenge. On the third day after the circumcision, they enter the city and slay all the men, including Shechem and Hamor. They rescue Dinah and plunder the city, causing fear among the surrounding nations.
To delve into the context and depth of each verse in Genesis 34, click the links below: