Definition: And unto Hamor and unto Shechem his son hearkened all that went out of the gate of his city; and every male was circumcised, all that went out of the gate of his city.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Genesis 34:24. It’s a really important passage about a pivotal moment in the beginning of humanity – and it has some pretty surprising consequences. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a situation where a group of men, primarily Shechem, were excluded from the community due to being connected to Hamor. Let's unpack that: “And unto Hamor and unto Shechem his son hearkened all that went out of the gate of his city” – This means that these men (Shechem and his offspring) listened to everyone who came from the walls or boundaries of his city. “Gate of his city” refers to a specific area that was essentially a border zone. “And every male was circumcised, all that went out of the gate of his city.” – This is the key part. A ritual called circumcision was being performed on every single man who came from that area. It’s like a mandatory marking or identification ceremony. So, what's the big deal? This verse is considered one of the earliest examples of exclusion and discrimination in the Bible. It highlights a very early form of social hierarchy and control. It suggests: A Divided Society: The story sets up a situation where people were being segregated and controlled, creating a division within the community. Power Dynamics: This act points to a potential power imbalance – Shechem, as the son of Hamor, was essentially given authority over the entire group. It’s a sign that he wasn't seen as equal to everyone else. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as foreshadowing future events in the Old Testament and can be viewed as a warning about the dangers of prejudice and inequality. It shows how easily people can be marginalized and controlled when they are excluded from opportunities and community. Important Note: The exact circumstances surrounding this event are debated by scholars. It’s possible that this was a very isolated incident, but it's definitely a significant and troubling part of the story. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?