Book of Genesis - Chapter 34 - Verse 14

In this verse, the brothers of Dinah express their reluctance to allow their sister to marry Shechem, a man who is uncircumcised. To them, this would bring shame and disgrace upon their family. Circumcision was a significant cultural and religious practice among the Israelites, symbolizing their covenant with God. In this context, marrying someone who was not circumcised was seen as a violation of that covenant and a betrayal of their beliefs. The brothers' refusal to give their sister to Shechem demonstrates the importance they placed on upholding their cultural and religious traditions, even at the cost of potential alliances or relationships. This verse highlights the deep significance of circumcision in ancient Israelite society and the lengths to which individuals were willing to go to preserve their honor and identity.

In this verse, the theological interpretation revolves around the practice of circumcision in ancient Jewish culture. Circumcision was a significant symbol of the covenant between God and the Israelites, dating back to the time of Abraham. The act of circumcision distinguished the Israelites from other nations and was seen as a mark of belonging to God's chosen people. Therefore, when the brothers of Dinah insisted that a potential suitor must be circumcised before marrying her, it was a reflection of their desire to maintain their identity as a holy nation separate from the surrounding cultures. By refusing to give their sister to an uncircumcised man, they were upholding the purity and sanctity of their community. The word "uncircumcised" in this context carries not just a literal meaning but also a symbolic one, representing those who were outside of the covenant with God.