Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Alle som gikk ut av porten i byen hans, hørte på Hamor og sønnen Sikem. Alt av hankjønn ble omskåret. På den tredje dagen, mens de ennå hadde vondt etter omskjærelsen, tok to av sønnene til Jakob, Simeon og Levi, Dinas brødre, hvert sitt sverd. De kom uventet over byen og drepte alt av hankjønn. De drepte Hamor og hans sønn Sikem med sverdet, og de tok Dina ut av Sikems hus og dro bort. Jakobs sønner gikk så inn og plyndret byen der søsteren deres var blitt voldtatt. De tok alle husdyrene deres, både store og små og eslene deres, alt det som var i byen, og det som var på marken – alt som var av verdi, ble tatt. Alle barna og konene i byen ble tatt til fange. De plyndret til og med inni husene.
What Does This Mean?
This verse tells us that everyone in the city listened to Hamor and Shechem, and all the men were circumcised. It shows how the city followed their leaders' decisions.
Explained for Children
Imagine a school where everyone follows the principal's rules. In this story, all the people in the town listened to the leaders and did what they said, just like how everyone in a school listens to the principal.
Historical Background
This passage is from Genesis, written by Moses around 1400 BC. It describes events in the ancient Near East, where circumcision was a significant cultural and religious practice.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this can remind us of the importance of following good leaders. For example, if a community leader suggests a new program to help the less fortunate, we should consider supporting it if it aligns with our values.
The city likely followed Hamor and Shechem because they were the leaders, and in ancient times, obedience to leaders was deeply ingrained in societal norms.
What is the significance of circumcision in this verse?
Circumcision was a significant religious and cultural practice, marking inclusion in a covenant with God and signifying a commitment to the community’s traditions.
How does this verse relate to the concept of obedience?
This verse illustrates how obedience to community leaders can lead to widespread acceptance of a practice, like circumcision, reflecting the importance of following guidance in a community.
What can we learn from the obedience in this verse?
We can learn about the importance of unity and following wise leadership, especially when decisions benefit the community and align with moral and ethical standards.