Genesis 34:14 Meaning and Explanation
“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:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The brothers say they cannot give Dinah to an uncircumcised man, as it would disgrace their family.
The Context of Genesis 34:14
The brothers state their religious condition for consent.
What Does Genesis 34:14 Mean?
The brothers invoke religious and cultural law: they frame uncircumcision as a bar to marriage, making it a matter of covenant identity and family honor. This condition appears to rest on legitimate principle—circumcision marks God's covenant with Abraham's descendants.
Their stated reason connects the marriage prohibition to the defilement: because he violated their sister, he must first align himself with their covenant community. The condition creates a test of sincerity while serving their hidden agenda.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 34:14
What does Genesis 34:14 mean?
The brothers say they cannot give Dinah to an uncircumcised man, as it would disgrace their family.
What is the context of Genesis 34:14?
The brothers state their religious condition for consent.