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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Genesis 33:16–20.
Here, 1. Jacob comes to Succoth. Having in a friendly manner parted with Esau, who had gone to his own country (Gen 33:16), he comes to a place where, it should seem, he rested for some time, set up booths for his cattle, and other conveniences for himself and family. The place was afterwards known by the name of Succoth, a city in the tribe of Gad, on the other side Jordan (it signifies booths), that when his posterity afterwards dwelt in houses of stone, they might remember that the Syrian ready to perish was their father, who was glad of booths (Deu 26:5); such was the rock whence they were hewn. 2. He comes to Shechem; we read it, to Shalem, a city of Shechem; the critics generally incline to read it appellatively: he came safely, or in peace, to the city of Shechem. After a perilous journey, in which he had met with many difficulties, he came safely, at last, into Canaan. Note, Diseases and dangers should teach us how to value health and safety, and should help to enlarge our hearts in thankfulness, when our going out and coming in have been signally preserved. Here, (1.) He buys a field, Gen 33:19. Though the land of Canaan was his by promise, yet, the time for taking possession not having yet come, he is content to pay for his own, to prevent disputes with the present occupants. Note, Dominion is not founded in grace. Those that have heaven on free-cost must not expect to have earth so. (2.) He builds an altar, Gen 33:20. [1.] In thankfulness to God, for the good hand of his providence over him. He did not content himself with verbal acknowledgments of God's favour to him, but made real ones: [2.] That he might keep up religion, and the worship of God, in his family. Note, Where we have a tent God must have an altar, where we have a house he must have a church in it. He dedicated this altar, where we have a house he must have a church in it. He dedicated this altar to the honour of El-elohe-Israel - God, the God of Israel, to the honour of God, in general, the only living and true God, the best of beings and first of causes; and to the honour of the God of Israel, as a God in covenant with him. Note, In our worship of God we must be guided and governed by the joint-discoveries both of natural and revealed religion. God had lately called him by the name of Israel, and now he calls God the God of Israel; though he is styled a prince with God, God shall still be a prince with him, his Lord and his God. Note, Our honours then become honours indeed to us when they are consecrated to God's honour; Israel's God is Israel's glory.
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Summary
Genesis 33:19 chronicles a pivotal moment in Jacob's journey back to Canaan: his first acquisition of land in the Promised Land. This verse details his purchase of a field in Shechem from the local Hivite inhabitants, the children of Hamor, for a substantial sum of one hundred pieces of money. This act marks a significant step towards establishing his family's presence and laying down roots in the land God had covenanted to his forefathers, signifying a desire for stability and a tangible claim on the divine inheritance.
Context
Literary Context
Genesis 33:19 immediately follows Jacob's profoundly transformative experiences. He has just survived a terrifying encounter with God at Peniel, where his name was changed to Israel, signifying his wrestling with God and man and prevailing (Genesis 32:22-32). This spiritual victory is immediately followed by a tense but ultimately peaceful reconciliation with his estranged brother Esau, a reunion marked by mutual generosity and relief (Genesis 33:1-17). Having navigated these significant personal and familial challenges, Jacob then journeys to Succoth, where he builds a house and shelters for his livestock, indicating a temporary settlement. His subsequent move to Shechem and the land purchase recorded in Genesis 33:19 signifies a more deliberate and permanent step towards settling in the land, rather than merely passing through on his way to his father Isaac in Hebron. This act of purchasing land, rather than simply encamping, highlights a new phase of stability and commitment for Jacob's burgeoning family.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the ancient Near East, land ownership was a foundational aspect of identity, status, and economic security. While nomadic peoples often moved with their flocks, establishing a fixed dwelling and purchasing land signified a transition towards a more settled existence and a claim to a specific territory. The transaction "at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem's father," indicates a legitimate, consensual acquisition from the indigenous population. Hamor was the chieftain or patriarch of the Hivites in the region of Shechem, making the transaction a formal agreement between two prominent figures. The payment of "an hundred pieces of money" (Hebrew: qesitah) underscores the value of the land and the legitimacy of the purchase. Such transactions were typically witnessed and legally binding, ensuring the buyer's rights to the property. This peaceful acquisition contrasts sharply with later events in Genesis 34, where the relationship between Jacob's family and the Shechemites tragically deteriorates, highlighting the fragility of peace in a complex cultural landscape.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Genesis. Firstly, it underscores the theme of covenant fulfillment and inheritance. God had promised Abraham, Isaac, and now Jacob, that their descendants would inherit the land of Canaan. Jacob's purchase is a tangible step in claiming this divine promise, mirroring Abraham's earlier purchase of the cave of Machpelah in Genesis 23:16 as a burial plot. Secondly, it highlights the theme of establishing roots and stability. After decades of being a sojourner, fleeing from Esau and then serving Laban, Jacob's act of buying land signals a desire for a permanent home for his large family and extensive livestock, moving beyond a purely nomadic existence. Thirdly, the legitimate nature of the acquisition emphasizes righteous ownership. Jacob does not seize the land but purchases it fairly, setting a precedent for how God's people are to interact with the inhabitants of the land, even as they anticipate its full inheritance. Finally, this particular plot of land in Shechem holds foreshadowing significance, as it is later identified as the burial place for Joseph's bones when they are brought out of Egypt by the Israelites, as recorded in Joshua 24:32, connecting Jacob's initial claim to the future fulfillment of God's promises to the nation of Israel.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root means "to erect, i.e. create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase (causatively, sell); by implication to own." In this context, it signifies Jacob's deliberate act of acquiring ownership through a formal transaction, establishing a legal claim to the land rather than merely occupying it. This word emphasizes the intentionality and permanence of the acquisition.
This word refers to "smoothness; figuratively, flattery; also an allotment; field, ground, parcel, part, piece of land (ground), plat, portion." Here, it specifically denotes a defined, demarcated piece of land, an "allotment" or "plat," indicating that Jacob purchased a specific, measurable plot rather than an undefined area. This highlights the precise nature of the transaction.
This term describes "an ingot (as definitely estimated and stamped for a coin); piece of money (silver)." It refers to a specific, ancient unit of currency or weight, likely an unminted but weighed quantity of precious metal, probably silver, or a stamped metal piece. The mention of "an hundred" indicates a substantial and valuable payment, underscoring the significance and cost of the land acquisition.
Verse Breakdown
"And he bought a parcel of a field"
This opening clause immediately establishes Jacob's action and its object. The verb "bought" (qânâh) signifies a legitimate, formal acquisition through payment, not a taking by force or mere temporary occupation. The "parcel of a field" (chelqâh) indicates a specific, defined plot of agricultural land, suggesting Jacob's intention to settle and utilize the land for his family and livestock. This marks a significant shift from his previous nomadic existence.
"where he had spread his tent"
This phrase provides crucial context. It indicates that Jacob had already encamped on this specific location prior to purchasing it. This suggests that the purchase was a formalization of an existing presence, transforming a temporary dwelling into a permanent claim. It also implies a strategic choice of location, likely for its fertility or access to water, which made it desirable for a settled community.
"at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem's father"
This specifies the sellers and the nature of the transaction. "At the hand of" (yâd) implies a direct transaction and agreement with the local authorities. Hamor, as the father of Shechem, was the chieftain or leading figure of the Hivite inhabitants of the region. This detail underscores the legitimacy of the purchase; Jacob acquired the land through negotiation and consent with the recognized local leadership, rather than through conflict or usurpation.
"for an hundred pieces of money"
This final clause states the price paid for the land. The "hundred pieces of money" (mêʼâh qᵉsîyṭâh) indicates a significant sum, emphasizing the value Jacob placed on this acquisition. While the exact value of a qesitah is debated, its mention highlights a substantial and formal payment, further solidifying the legality and seriousness of the land transaction.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its significance. Symbolism is prominent, as Jacob's act of purchasing land symbolizes his tangible claim to the Promised Land and his commitment to establishing roots within the divine inheritance. It is not merely a financial transaction but a symbolic act of faith in God's covenant promises. There is also an element of Foreshadowing, as this specific plot of land in Shechem will later become the burial place for Joseph's bones (Joshua 24:32), connecting Jacob's initial claim to the future history and identity of Israel. Furthermore, a subtle Irony can be perceived when viewed in light of the subsequent events in Genesis 34, where this peaceful, legitimate acquisition is tragically followed by violence and conflict between Jacob's family and the Shechemites, highlighting the volatile nature of their settlement in Canaan.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Jacob's purchase of land in Shechem is a profound theological statement, marking a tangible step in the fulfillment of God's covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob concerning the land of Canaan. It demonstrates Jacob's faith and commitment to the divine inheritance, moving beyond a purely nomadic existence to establish a physical foothold in the Promised Land. This act mirrors Abraham's earlier purchase of the cave of Machpelah as a burial site, signifying a deep-seated belief in the future possession of the land by his descendants. It underscores the theme that while God promises, His people are also called to act in faith, making legitimate claims and laying down roots in anticipation of His full provision.
Reflection and Application
Jacob's decision to purchase land in Shechem, rather than merely passing through, offers a rich lesson in faithful stewardship and intentional living. Despite being a recipient of incredible divine promises and having just experienced profound spiritual and relational breakthroughs, Jacob did not passively wait for God to simply hand him the land. Instead, he actively invested in it, demonstrating a practical commitment to his family's future and a tangible step towards fulfilling God's covenant. This act reminds us that faith is often expressed through responsible, deliberate actions in the present. As believers, we are called to be good stewards of the resources, opportunities, and relationships God entrusts to us, making wise decisions that align with His purposes, even when the full scope of His plan is not yet revealed. This can mean investing in our communities, building stable homes, or committing to long-term endeavors, all while trusting in God's ultimate sovereignty and provision. It encourages us to lay down roots where God has placed us, seeking to establish a godly presence and contribute to the flourishing of our surroundings, knowing that our actions, however small, can be part of God's larger redemptive narrative.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is a "qesitah" and why is its mention significant?
The Hebrew word qesitah (קְשִׂיטָה) refers to an ancient unit of currency or weight, mentioned only three times in the Old Testament: here in Genesis 33:19, in Joshua 24:32 regarding Joseph's bones, and in Job 42:11. Its exact value is debated, but it likely represented a specific weight of precious metal, possibly silver, or a piece of money stamped with the image of a lamb, signifying its value. Its mention is significant because it underscores the legitimacy and substantial nature of the transaction, indicating that Jacob paid a considerable and recognized sum for the land, formalizing his ownership.
Why did Jacob buy land instead of simply settling or taking it?
Jacob's purchase of land was a deliberate and strategic act that carried significant theological and practical weight. Firstly, it established a tangible and legitimate claim within the Promised Land, signifying a desire for stability and a foundational step in his family's establishment, rather than merely a temporary encampment. This mirrored Abraham's earlier purchase of the cave of Machpelah in Genesis 23:16, demonstrating a commitment to the land as a future inheritance promised by God. Secondly, it set a precedent for peaceful and ethical acquisition, emphasizing that God's people were to inherit the land through covenant and legitimate means, not through unprovoked conquest at this stage. This act of purchase underscored respect for existing inhabitants and legal processes, even as the divine promise of the land remained paramount.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Jacob's act of purchasing a parcel of land in Shechem, thereby establishing a tangible claim within the Promised Land, profoundly foreshadows Christ's ultimate and eternal claim over His spiritual inheritance. Just as Jacob secured a physical dwelling place for his family through a legitimate transaction, Christ, through His atoning work on the cross, "bought" His church, His redeemed people, with the precious price of His own blood, securing for them an eternal dwelling in the new heavens and new earth (1 Peter 1:18-19; Ephesians 1:7). His kingdom is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise of a land and a people, where He, the true Israel, establishes His permanent reign, providing true rest and an incorruptible inheritance for all who are "in Christ" (Ephesians 1:13-14; Colossians 1:13-14). Jacob's earthly purchase points to Christ's divine purchase, which secures not merely a plot of land, but eternal life and a place in God's everlasting kingdom, where He will dwell with His people forever (Revelation 21:1-4).