Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Genesis - Chapter 34 - Verse 7

34:7
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.

Meaning

When the sons of Jacob heard about the incident involving their sister Dinah, they were filled with grief and anger. Their reaction was justified as Shechem had committed a grave offense by lying with Jacob's daughter. This act of folly was not only a personal betrayal but also a dishonor to the family and to the people of Israel. The verse highlights the importance of upholding moral standards and the consequences of straying from them. It serves as a reminder of the values that the Israelites held dear and the expectations placed upon them as a chosen people. The reaction of Jacob's sons reflects the seriousness of the situation and the need to address such transgressions swiftly. This event ultimately led to a series of actions that would have lasting implications for the family of Jacob and the tribes of Israel. It is a pivotal moment in the story of the patriarchs and the history of the Israelites.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of upholding moral standards within the community of believers. The anger expressed by the sons of Jacob at the violation of their sister demonstrates the seriousness of sexual sin and the need to protect the sanctity of the family unit. The phrase "wrought folly in Israel" underscores the idea that sinful behavior not only affects the individual, but also has repercussions for the entire community. By highlighting the outrage and grief of Jacob's sons, the text conveys a clear message about the consequences of disobedience to God's commands.

In terms of word studies, the phrase "wrought folly" can be examined to gain a deeper understanding of the original Hebrew text. The word "folly" denotes a sense of foolishness or lack of wisdom, suggesting that the actions of the individual in question were not only sinful but also devoid of discernment. This serves as a reminder of the importance of making wise choices in accordance with God's will. Additionally, the use of the term "Israel" in this context emphasizes the collective identity of the nation and the responsibility of each member to uphold the moral standards outlined in Scripture. Overall, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of straying from God's commands and the importance of living a life of righteousness.

Previous VerseNext Verse