Genesis 34:17

But if ye will not hearken unto us, to be circumcised; then will we take our daughter, and we will be gone.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

לֹ֧א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תִשְׁמְע֛וּ

H8085

But if ye will not hearken

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

אֵלֵ֖ינוּ

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

לְהִמּ֑וֹל

H4135

unto us to be circumcised

to cut short, i.e., curtail (specifically the prepuce, i.e., to circumcise); by implication, to blunt; figuratively, to destroy

וְלָקַ֥חְנוּ

H3947

then will we take

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

בִּתֵּ֖נוּ

H1323

our daughter

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

וְהָלָֽכְנוּ׃

H1980

and we will be gone

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?

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