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Genesis 34:25

And it came to pass on the third day, when they were sore, that two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brethren, took each man his sword, and came upon the city boldly, and slew all the males.

Genesis 34:25 · King James Version

Meaning

Genesis 34:25 depicts a violent event in the Bible where two of Jacob's sons, Simeon and Levi, take revenge for the defilement of their sister Dinah. The verse illustrates the brothers' fierce reaction to the injustice done to their family member. The phrase "took each man his sword, and came upon the city boldly, and slew all the males" underscores the brutality of their actions. This verse showcases the theme of justice and the consequences of sin in the biblical narrative. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding moral values and seeking retribution for wrongdoing. The story of Simeon and Levi's actions offers a lesson on the dangers of unchecked emotions and the need for accountability in the face of injustice. Overall, this verse highlights the complexities of human nature and the role of divine justice in the biblical context.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of the verse in Genesis 34:25 raises questions about the actions of Simeon and Levi, two of Jacob's sons who took vengeance on the men of Shechem for the rape of their sister Dinah. Some scholars see their actions as impulsive and driven by emotion rather than a carefully considered approach to justice. This incident raises important questions about the nature of justice and the proper response to wrongdoing. Additionally, the phrase "came upon the city boldly" suggests a certain recklessness in their actions, which could be seen as a violation of the principles of righteousness and mercy. The word study here might also shed light on the concept of boldness and its implications in the context of biblical morality. Overall, this verse invites readers to reflect on the complexities of justice, revenge, and the importance of measured responses in the face of injustice.

Genesis 34:25 in other translations

American Standard Version

And it came to pass on the third day, when they were sore, that two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brethren, took each man his sword, and came upon the city unawares, and slew all the males.

World English Bible

On the third day, when they were sore, two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brothers, each took his sword, came upon the unsuspecting city, and killed all the males.

Douay-Rheims

And behold the third day, when the pain of the wound was greatest: two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, the brothers of Dina, taking their swords, entered boldly into the city and slew all the men.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And on the thirde day (when they were sore) two of the sonnes of Iaakob, Simeon and Leui, Dinahs brethren tooke either of them his sworde and went into the citie boldly, and slue euery male.