Genesis 34:22

22 But only on this condition will the men agree to dwell with us and be one people: if all our men are circumcised as they are.

Genesis 34:22 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 34:22

Only herein will the men consent unto us
The only term or condition insisted upon, to come into an alliance and affinity with us, and for to dwell with us, to be one people,
to become one body politic, is the following one: if every male among us be circumcised, as they [are] circumcised;
submitting to this rite, they agree to take up their residence with us, and be incorporated among us, and become one people.

Genesis 34:22 In-Context

20 So Hamor and his son Shechem went to the gate of their city and addressed the men of their city:

21 “These men are at peace with us. Let them live and trade in our land; indeed, it is large enough for them. Let us take their daughters in marriage and give our daughters to them.

22 But only on this condition will the men agree to dwell with us and be one people: if all our men are circumcised as they are.

23 Will not their livestock, their possessions, and all their animals become ours? Only let us consent to them, and they will dwell among us.”

24 All the men who went out of the city gate listened to Hamor and his son Shechem, and every male of the city was circumcised.