Genesis 34:23

Authorized King James Version

Shall not their cattle and their substance and every beast of their's be our's? only let us consent unto them, and they will dwell with us.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מִקְנֵהֶ֤ם

H4735

Shall not their cattle

something bought, i.e., property, but only live stock; abstractly, acquisition

וְקִנְיָנָם֙

H7075

and their substance

creation, i.e., (concretely) creatures; also acquisition, purchase, wealth

וְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

בְּהֶמְתָּ֔ם

H929

and every beast

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

הֲל֥וֹא

H3808

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

לָ֖נוּ

הֵ֑ם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

אַ֚ךְ

H389

a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only

נֵא֣וֹתָה

H225

of theirs be ours only let us consent

properly, to come, i.e., (implied) to assent

#10

לָהֶ֔ם

#11

וְיֵֽשְׁב֖וּ

H3427

unto them and they will dwell

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

#12

אִתָּֽנוּ׃

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

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

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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