Who was Shechem in the Bible? (person)
Shechem is a multifaceted name in the Old Testament, referring to both a significant individual and a notable location. The Hebrew name “Shechem” (שְׁכֶם) means “shoulder” or “ridge,” which aptly describes the geographical area. This article will explore the various individuals named Shechem, their roles in the biblical narrative, and the spiritual lessons they provide for modern Christians.
Shechem: Son of Hamor
The Incident with Dinah
The most prominent mention of Shechem is as the son of Hamor, the Hivite prince of the city of Shechem. This account is found in Genesis 33:19 and Genesis 34. Shechem, the son of Hamor, becomes infamously known for his actions involving Dinah, the daughter of Jacob.
- Genesis 33:19: “And he bought the piece of land where he had pitched his tent, from the children of Hamor, Shechem’s father, for one hundred pieces of money.”
- Genesis 34:2: “And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, prince of the country, saw her, he took her and lay with her, and defiled her.”
This incident led to a series of violent and deceitful events. Shechem’s desire to marry Dinah resulted in her brothers, Simeon and Levi, avenging her by deceitfully agreeing to the marriage on the condition that all the men of Shechem be circumcised. Once the men were incapacitated from the circumcision, Simeon and Levi killed them and plundered the city (Genesis 34:25-29).
The City of Shechem
The city of Shechem itself holds significant historical and religious importance. It is first mentioned in Genesis 12:6-7, where God appeared to Abram and promised the land to his descendants. This location became a central place for various covenantal events and blessings in Israel’s history.
- Genesis 12:6-7: “Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, ‘To your offspring I will give this land.’ So he built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him.”
Shechem: Descendant of Joseph
Genealogical Significance
Shechem is also mentioned as a descendant of Joseph through his son Manasseh. This is found in Numbers 26:31, where Shechem is listed among the clans of Manasseh.
- Numbers 26:31: “And of Asriel, the family of the Asrielites: and of Shechem, the family of the Shechemites.”
This reference highlights the integration and continuity of Shechem’s lineage within the tribes of Israel, particularly through the half-tribe of Manasseh.
Shechem: A Manassite
Tribal Leadership
In 1 Chronicles 7:19, Shechem is noted as a member of the tribe of Manasseh, being the son of Shemida. This genealogical record places Shechem within the broader context of Israel’s tribal leadership and heritage.
- 1 Chronicles 7:19: “The sons of Shemida were Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam.”
What was Shechem in the Bible? (location)
Shechem, known in Hebrew as שְׁכֶם (Shekhem), is a significant location in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament. This city, situated in the central highlands of Canaan, holds profound historical and theological importance. Shechem is not just a geographical location; it symbolizes divine encounters, covenantal commitments, and moral lessons that continue to resonate with modern Christians.
Shechem in the Time of the Patriarchs
God’s Promise to Abram
Shechem first appears in Genesis 12:6-7, where Abram (later Abraham) passed through the land and received a promise from God. Here, the Lord appeared to Abram and assured him that his descendants would inherit the land.
- Genesis 12:6-7: “Abram traveled through the land as far as the site of the great tree of Moreh at Shechem. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. The Lord appeared to Abram and said, ‘To your offspring I will give this land.’ So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him.”
This encounter at Shechem marks a pivotal moment in God’s covenant with Abram, establishing a promise that would shape the history of Israel.
Jacob’s Settlement
In Genesis 33:18-20, Jacob, Abraham’s grandson, also arrives at Shechem and purchases a parcel of land. This act symbolizes Jacob’s commitment to the land promised to his forefathers.
- Genesis 33:18-20: “After Jacob came from Paddan Aram, he arrived safely at the city of Shechem in Canaan and camped within sight of the city. For a hundred pieces of silver, he bought from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, the plot of ground where he pitched his tent. There he set up an altar and called it El Elohe Israel.”
Jacob’s purchase and the establishment of an altar reflect a reaffirmation of God’s promises and Jacob’s dedication to the covenant.
Shechem in the Time of Joshua
Renewal of the Covenant
Shechem plays a crucial role in the book of Joshua. In Joshua 24:1, Joshua gathers all the tribes of Israel at Shechem to renew their covenant with the Lord. This ceremony was a significant reaffirmation of Israel’s commitment to serve and worship God alone.
- Joshua 24:1: “Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He summoned the elders, leaders, judges, and officials of Israel, and they presented themselves before God.”
This renewal at Shechem highlights the city’s importance as a place where Israel recommits to their God, reinforcing their identity as God’s chosen people.
Shechem in the Time of the Judges
The Story of Abimelech
In Judges 9, Shechem becomes the backdrop for the tragic story of Abimelech, Gideon’s son, who sought to become king. Abimelech’s reign, marked by treachery and violence, ended in disaster, illustrating the consequences of wickedness and betrayal.
- Judges 9:1-6: “Abimelech son of Jerub-Baal went to his mother’s brothers in Shechem and said to them and to all his mother’s clan, ‘Ask all the citizens of Shechem, which is better for you: to have all seventy of Jerub-Baal’s sons rule over you, or just one man?’… All the citizens of Shechem and Beth Millo gathered beside the great tree at the pillar in Shechem to crown Abimelech king.”
Abimelech’s story serves as a warning against the dangers of ambition and the rejection of godly leadership.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Importance of Divine Promises
The events at Shechem remind modern Christians of the importance of God’s promises. Just as Abram and Jacob received assurances from God, believers today can trust in God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises.
Commitment and Renewal
Shechem’s role in the renewal of the covenant under Joshua emphasizes the importance of regularly reaffirming one’s commitment to God. Christians are encouraged to renew their faith and dedication through personal reflection, prayer, and communal worship.
Consequences of Sin
The story of Abimelech at Shechem highlights the dire consequences of sin, pride, and rebellion. Modern believers are reminded to seek humility and righteousness, avoiding the pitfalls of selfish ambition and moral compromise.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness and Sovereignty
Shechem symbolizes God’s unwavering faithfulness and sovereignty. The promises made to Abram and Jacob at Shechem, and their fulfillment, illustrate God’s steadfast love and control over history. Christians can find assurance in knowing that God remains faithful and sovereign in their lives.
A Place of Encounter
Shechem represents a place where God meets His people. For modern Christians, this can translate to recognizing and cherishing moments of divine encounter in their daily lives, whether through prayer, scripture, or worship.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Fulfillment of Promises
The promises given at Shechem are ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. As the descendant of Abraham and Jacob, Jesus embodies the culmination of God’s covenantal promises. Through Christ, believers inherit the blessings promised to the patriarchs.
The New Covenant
The renewal of the covenant at Shechem under Joshua prefigures the new covenant established by Jesus. Christians are called to embrace this new covenant, which offers forgiveness and eternal life through faith in Christ.
Conclusion
Shechem holds a special place in biblical history as a site of divine promise, covenant renewal, and moral lessons. For modern Christians, Shechem serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness, the importance of commitment to His commands, and the consequences of sin. By understanding the rich biblical history associated with Shechem, believers can deepen their faith and strengthen their relationship with a loving God and Jesus Christ, who fulfills the promises made at this significant location.