King James Version
Genesis 34:14 in the King James Version says “And they said unto them, We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one that is uncircumcised; for that were a repro...” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 34 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And they said unto them, We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one that is uncircumcised; for that were a reproach unto us:”
Genesis 34:14 · KJV
Ask me never so much dowry and gift, and I will give according as ye shall say unto me: but give me the damsel to wife.
And the sons of Jacob answered Shechem and Hamor his father deceitfully, and said, because he had defiled Dinah their sister:
And they said unto them, We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one that is uncircumcised; for that were a reproach unto us:
But in this will we consent unto you: If ye will be as we be, that every male of you be circumcised;
Then will we give our daughters unto you, and we will take your daughters to us, and we will dwell with you, and we will become one people.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“unto them We cannot”
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“this thing”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“our sister”
H269a sister (used very widely [like h0251], literally and figuratively)
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Genesis 34:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Genesis 34:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge