Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is happening in Genesis 34:12?
A: In Genesis 34:12, Shechem, the son of Chamor, is speaking to Jacob's sons after he had taken their sister Dinah. He offers to pay any amount of dowry ('mohar') and gifts ('mattan') they demand in exchange for permission to marry Dinah. This verse reflects the ancient Near Eastern custom where a bridegroom would give gifts to the bride's family.
Q: Why is the concept of 'mohar' (dowry) important in this verse?
A: The 'mohar' (dowry) mentioned in Genesis 34:12 was a traditional payment or gift from the groom to the bride's family, demonstrating his commitment and ability to provide. In Jewish law, this concept later evolved into the 'ketubah' (marriage contract), which ensures financial protection for the wife. Rashi explains that Shechem was willing to pay any price, showing his desperation to marry Dinah, but Jacob's sons saw this as insincere and unacceptable due to the circumstances.
Q: How do Jewish sources interpret Shechem's offer in this verse?
A: Traditional Jewish sources, including the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah), view Shechem's offer as manipulative and insincere. Despite his willingness to pay any price, his actions—taking Dinah by force—showed a lack of true repentance or respect for Jacob's family. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) also discusses how the laws of morality and consent were violated in this episode.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 34:12?
A: This verse teaches that material compensation cannot rectify a moral wrong. Shechem thought he could 'buy' his way into marrying Dinah after harming her, but true justice and repentance require sincere change, not just financial offers. Jewish ethics emphasize that relationships must be built on mutual respect and holiness, not coercion or transactions.
Q: Does this verse have any relevance to Jewish marriage customs today?
A: While the specific practice of 'mohar' (dowry) is not part of modern Jewish marriage, the underlying principles—commitment, mutual agreement, and financial responsibility—remain central. Today, Jewish marriage is formalized through the 'kiddushin' (betrothal) and 'ketubah,' ensuring the wife's rights and dignity. The story of Shechem serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of ethical conduct in relationships.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Genesis 34:12) is part of the narrative involving Shechem, the son of Chamor the Chivite, who had violated Dinah, the daughter of Yaakov. Shechem then seeks to marry Dinah and speaks these words to her brothers, offering to pay any dowry ("mohar") or gift ("mattan") they demand in exchange for her hand in marriage.
Explanation of Key Terms
Shechem's Proposal
Shechem's offer reflects his desperation to legitimize his relationship with Dinah after violating her. The Sforno notes that Shechem's words—"Ask me never so much"—indicate his willingness to pay any price, highlighting his lack of moral boundaries. The brothers, however, saw this as an attempt to cover up his crime rather than a sincere gesture of repentance.
Halachic and Ethical Implications
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) discusses whether a non-Jew (like Shechem) is bound by the same marital laws as Jews. While Shechem's offer might seem generous, the Torah's perspective (as later codified by the Rambam in Hilchos Melachim 9:5) prohibits such unions due to the lack of genuine consent and the violent context.
Brothers' Response
Though the brothers initially appear to negotiate (Genesis 34:13-17), their true intent—as revealed later—was to avenge Dinah's honor. The Ohr HaChaim emphasizes that their deception was justified under the circumstances, as Shechem and his people posed a continued threat to Bnei Yisrael's moral and physical safety.