Genesis 33:19

KJV

And he bought a parcel of a field, where he had spread his tent, at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem's father, for an hundred pieces of money.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he bought {H7069} a parcel {H2513} of a field {H7704}, where he had spread {H5186} his tent {H168}, at the hand {H3027} of the children {H1121} of Hamor {H2544}, Shechem's {H7927} father {H1}, for an hundred {H3967} pieces of money {H7192}.

Complete Jewish Bible

From the sons of Hamor Sh'khem's father he bought for one hundred pieces of silver the parcel of land where he had pitched his tent.

Berean Standard Bible

And the plot of ground where he pitched his tent, he purchased from the sons of Hamor, Shechem’s father, for a hundred pieces of silver.

American Standard Version

And he bought the parcel of ground, where he had spread his tent, at the hand of the children of Hamor, Shechem’s father, for a hundred pieces of money.

Commentary

### 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](/genesis/32-22-32 "Jacob wrestles with God")). 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](/genesis/33-1-17 "Jacob and Esau's Reconciliation")). 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](/genesis/33-19 "Jacob's land purchase in Shechem") 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](/genesis/34 "The Dinah Incident and Shechem's Destruction"), 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](/genesis/23-16 "Abraham's purchase of Machpelah") 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](/joshua/24-32 "Joseph's burial in Shechem"), connecting Jacob's initial claim to the future fulfillment of God's promises to the nation of Israel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bought (Hebrew, _qânâh'_):** From H7069, 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.
* **parcel (Hebrew, _chelqâh'_):** From H2513, 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.
* **pieces of money (Hebrew, _qᵉsîyṭâh'_):** From H7192, 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](/joshua/24-32 "Joseph's burial in Shechem")), 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](/genesis/34 "The Dinah Incident and Shechem's Destruction"), 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.

* [Genesis 23:16](/genesis/23-16 "Abraham's purchase of Machpelah") – Abraham's purchase of the cave of Machpelah for a burial site from Ephron the Hittite, demonstrating an early, tangible claim to the Promised Land.
* [Joshua 24:32](/joshua/24-32 "Joseph's burial in Shechem") – This verse explicitly states that Joseph's bones were buried in the very parcel of ground that Jacob bought in Shechem, highlighting the long-term significance and fulfillment of this initial land acquisition.
* [Acts 7:16](/acts/7-16 "Stephen's speech on the patriarchs") – Stephen, in his defense before the Sanhedrin, references the burial of Jacob and the patriarchs in Shechem, in the tomb that Abraham (or Jacob, depending on textual variant and interpretation) had bought for a sum of money, further cementing the historical and theological importance of this land purchase.

### 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
* **In what areas of your life are you called to move from temporary dwelling to intentional establishment, trusting God's provision?**
* **How does Jacob's legitimate purchase of land inform our understanding of ethical engagement with resources and property in our own contexts?**
* **What "parcels of land" (metaphorically speaking) is God calling you to invest in, whether it be relationships, ministries, or personal development, as an act of faith and stewardship?**

### FAQ
**What is a "qesitah" and why is its mention significant?**

Answer: 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](/genesis/33-19 "Jacob's purchase in Shechem"), in [Joshua 24:32](/joshua/24-32 "Joseph's burial in Shechem") regarding Joseph's bones, and in [Job 42:11](/job/42-11 "Job's restoration"). 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?**

Answer: 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](/genesis/23-16 "Abraham's land purchase in Canaan"), 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](/1_peter/1-18-19 "Redemption through Christ's blood"); [Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Redemption through Christ's blood")). 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](/ephesians/1-13-14 "The seal of the Holy Spirit"); [Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Redemption and forgiveness of sins")). 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](/revelation/21-1-4 "New Heaven and New Earth")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 7:16

And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor [the father] of Sychem.

John 4:5

Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.

Joshua 24:32

And the bones of Joseph, which the children of Israel brought up out of Egypt, buried they in Shechem, in a parcel of ground which Jacob bought of the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for an hundred pieces of silver: and it became the inheritance of the children of Joseph.

Genesis 23:17

And the field of Ephron, which [was] in Machpelah, which [was] before Mamre, the field, and the cave which [was] therein, and all the trees that [were] in the field, that [were] in all the borders round about, were made sure

Genesis 23:20

And the field, and the cave that [is] therein, were made sure unto Abraham for a possession of a buryingplace by the sons of Heth.

Genesis 49:30

In the cave that [is] in the field of Machpelah, which [is] before Mamre, in the land of Canaan, which Abraham bought with the field of Ephron the Hittite for a possession of a buryingplace.

Genesis 49:32

The purchase of the field and of the cave that [is] therein [was] from the children of Heth.