Old Testament
Genesis 34:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
When Jacob's sons returned from the fields, they were devastated and furious upon hearing about the violation of their sister, Dinah.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
When Jacob's sons heard what had happened, they came in from the field. They were filled with grief and burning anger, because Shechem had committed a disgraceful act in Israel by violating Jacob's daughter—something that should never have been done.
And the sons of Jacob came out of the field when they heard it: and the men were grieved, and they were very wroth, because he had wrought folly in Israel in lying with Jacob’s daughter; which thing ought not to be done.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
When Jacob's sons returned from the fields, they were devastated and furious upon hearing about the violation of their sister, Dinah. Shechem, a local man, had acted in a way that was not only disrespectful but also shameful to their family and community. This act was seen as a deep dishonor, something that should never happen. The brothers felt a strong sense of injustice and anger, knowing that their sister had been wronged. Their emotions were a mix of grief for Dinah and rage towards Shechem for his actions. This moment highlights the importance of family loyalty and the protective instincts that arise when a loved one is harmed. It also reflects the cultural values of the time, where honor and shame played significant roles in relationships. The brothers' response was not just personal; it was a reaction to a violation of their family's dignity and the community's moral standards. Their feelings remind us of the deep connections we have with our family and the strong emotions that arise when those bonds are threatened.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 34:7 to your life
When faced with injustice, it's natural to feel anger and protect those we love. However, it's essential to channel that anger into constructive actions rather than destructive ones. Consider how you can support those who are hurting and stand up for what is right in your community. Reflect on the importance of respect and honor in your relationships and actions. Choose to respond with wisdom and compassion, even in difficult situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 34:7 mean?
Genesis 34:7 describes the reaction of Jacob's sons to the violation of their sister Dinah by Shechem. They were filled with grief and anger, reflecting the seriousness of the act and its impact on their family's honor.
What is the significance of Shechem's actions in Genesis 34:7?
Shechem's actions are significant because they represent a violation of family honor and community values. The brothers' strong emotional response highlights the cultural importance of protecting family dignity.
Why were Jacob's sons angry in Genesis 34:7?
Jacob's sons were angry because Shechem had committed a disgraceful act by violating their sister, which was seen as a deep dishonor to their family and community.
What does the term 'folly' refer to in Genesis 34:7?
In Genesis 34:7, 'folly' refers to Shechem's disgraceful and shameful act of lying with Dinah, which was considered morally unacceptable and a serious breach of conduct.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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