Old Testament
Genesis 33:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He purchased the piece of land where he had pitched his tent from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, for a hundred pieces of money.
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And he bought a parcel of a field, where he had spread his tent, at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem’s father, for an hundred pieces of money.
What Genesis 33:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a significant moment in the life of Jacob. After a long journey, he settles in a place where he feels at home. He buys a piece of land from the local people, the sons of Hamor, who are connected to the city of Shechem. This purchase is not just a transaction; it symbolizes Jacob's commitment to this new land and his desire to establish roots. By paying a hundred pieces of money, Jacob is making a clear statement about his intentions. He is not just passing through; he is here to stay. This act of buying land reflects a deeper need for belonging and security. It shows that Jacob is ready to embrace his new life and the future that lies ahead. This moment marks a turning point for him and his family, as they begin to build their lives in this new place, creating a legacy that will last for generations to come. Jacob's actions remind us of the importance of making choices that anchor us in our lives and communities, fostering a sense of stability and purpose.
How to apply Genesis 33:19 to your life
Consider the places where you invest your time and resources. Just as Jacob bought land to establish his family, think about how you can create a sense of belonging in your own life. Building connections and investing in your community can lead to a more fulfilling life. Reflect on what it means to put down roots where you are now. Embrace the opportunities to grow and thrive in your environment, just like Jacob did in
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jacob's story: Dinah and Shechem (Genesis 33:18–34:31)
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Jacob
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Genesis 33:19
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 33:19 teach about commitment?
Genesis 33:19 illustrates Jacob's commitment to his new life by purchasing land in Shechem. This act signifies his intention to settle down and establish roots, reflecting a deeper desire for stability and belonging. It teaches us that making intentional choices, like investing in a community, can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Why did Jacob buy land in Shechem?
Jacob bought land in Shechem to signify his intention to settle there after a long journey. This purchase from the sons of Hamor represents a pivotal moment for Jacob, as it marks his commitment to building a future for his family in a new place, establishing a sense of belonging and security.
What is the significance of the hundred pieces of money in this verse?
The hundred pieces of money Jacob paid for the land symbolizes a serious investment in his new life. It reflects his commitment to the land and his family’s future, indicating that he is not merely passing through but is ready to establish a lasting legacy in Shechem.
How can we apply the lessons from Genesis 33:19 to our lives?
We can apply the lessons from Genesis 33:19 by considering where we invest our time and resources. Just as Jacob made a deliberate choice to buy land and create a home, we should seek to build connections and invest in our communities, fostering a sense of belonging and stability in our own lives.
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