Hamor and Shechem trust what they hear, but they do not foresee the consequences.
“Now their words seemed reasonable to Hamor and Shechem, Hamor’s son.” (Genesis 34:18). This verse happens in the region of Shechem, which lay in central Canaan, north of Jerusalem. Historically, this area became significant as a meeting place for the descendants of Abraham, eventually serving as a crossroads for trade and travel. During the approximate time period of 1900-1800 BC, Jacob and his family resided near Shechem after returning from serving Laban. It is in this context that Hamor, the local ruler, and his son, Shechem, respond to the words of Jacob’s sons, finding them agreeable.
When we read that “their words seemed reasonable” (v.18), it highlights the eagerness of both Hamor and Shechem to come to an alliance with Jacob’s family—especially after the grievous incident involving Dinah earlier in Genesis 34. Hamor acts as a figure of local authority, seeking to negotiate an agreement. Historically, we know he would have carried considerable political weight, as local rulers in Canaan often served as chieftains of their cities, handling community disputes and alliances. Shechem, named after the city, was the son closely involved in the personal conflict that precipitated these negotiations.
From a broader biblical perspective, this moment foreshadows the complexities of human relationships in a covenant community. While the negotiation appears favorable, readers will later discover the hidden motives and simmering anger toward Shechem and Hamor. Across Scripture, God’s people are frequently challenged to exercise discernment (James 1:5) and to ensure that such negotiations align with God’s justice and righteousness. Although the tension here is primarily an Old Testament narrative, it reminds believers of Jesus’ call to be both wise and gracious (Matthew 10:16) in interactions with others.
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Genesis 34:18 meaning
“Now their words seemed reasonable to Hamor and Shechem, Hamor’s son.” (Genesis 34:18). This verse happens in the region of Shechem, which lay in central Canaan, north of Jerusalem. Historically, this area became significant as a meeting place for the descendants of Abraham, eventually serving as a crossroads for trade and travel. During the approximate time period of 1900-1800 BC, Jacob and his family resided near Shechem after returning from serving Laban. It is in this context that Hamor, the local ruler, and his son, Shechem, respond to the words of Jacob’s sons, finding them agreeable.
When we read that “their words seemed reasonable” (v.18), it highlights the eagerness of both Hamor and Shechem to come to an alliance with Jacob’s family—especially after the grievous incident involving Dinah earlier in Genesis 34. Hamor acts as a figure of local authority, seeking to negotiate an agreement. Historically, we know he would have carried considerable political weight, as local rulers in Canaan often served as chieftains of their cities, handling community disputes and alliances. Shechem, named after the city, was the son closely involved in the personal conflict that precipitated these negotiations.
From a broader biblical perspective, this moment foreshadows the complexities of human relationships in a covenant community. While the negotiation appears favorable, readers will later discover the hidden motives and simmering anger toward Shechem and Hamor. Across Scripture, God’s people are frequently challenged to exercise discernment (James 1:5) and to ensure that such negotiations align with God’s justice and righteousness. Although the tension here is primarily an Old Testament narrative, it reminds believers of Jesus’ call to be both wise and gracious (Matthew 10:16) in interactions with others.