King James Version
Genesis 34:16 in the King James Version says “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...” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 34 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“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.”
Genesis 34:16 · KJV
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.
But if ye will not hearken unto us, to be circumcised; then will we take our daughter, and we will be gone.
And their words pleased Hamor, and Shechem Hamor's son.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“Then will we give”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“our daughters”
H1323a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“our daughters”
H1323a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
“to us and we will dwell”
H3427properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
“people”
H5971a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
“with you and we will become one”
H259properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
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 34:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.