Genesis 34:1-12

A Tragic Incident

The move to Shechem (Genesis 33:18-20) proved to be a costly one. Dinah, Leah's daughter, was abducted and raped by Shechem the son of Hamor. He also truly fell in love with her. So, he talked to her in a soothing way in an effort to gain her favor. Jacob learned of the incident while his sons were working in the field. He told them upon their return. They responded naturally with grief and anger.

Hamor tried to reach an agreement for a marriage between his son and Jacob's daughter. He suggested such would open the door for other marriages between their two people and allow Jacob to be considered a citizen instead of a resident alien. Of course, he also thought he could share in Jacob's wealth and gain any daughters of Israel as potential brides for his sons. He expressed his willingness to give any dowry required and other gift which might simply go to Jacob (Genesis 34:1-12).