Genesis 34:14

14 “We cannot do such a thing,” they said. “To give our sister to an uncircumcised man would be a disgrace to us.

Genesis 34:14 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 34:14

And they said unto them
Levi and Simeon, to Hamor and Shechem: we cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one that is
uncircumcised;
not that there was any law against it at that time; and there were, on the other hand, precedents for it both in Isaac and Jacob, who had married the daughters of uncircumcised persons; nor indeed do they plead any law, only that it was not becoming their character, nor agreeably to their religion, nor honourable in their esteem: for that [were] a reproach unto us;
and they should be reflected upon for slighting the institution of circumcision, which was of God: so they pretend it might be interpreted, should they enter into affinity with uncircumcised persons.

Genesis 34:14 In-Context

12 Demand a high dowry and an expensive gift, and I will give you whatever you ask. Only give me the girl as my wife!”

13 But because Shechem had defiled their sister Dinah, Jacob’s sons answered him and his father Hamor deceitfully.

14 “We cannot do such a thing,” they said. “To give our sister to an uncircumcised man would be a disgrace to us.

15 We will consent to this on one condition, that you become circumcised like us—every one of your males.

16 Then we will give you our daughters and take your daughters for ourselves. We will dwell among you and become one people.