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Hamor

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What is the meaning of Hamor in the Bible?

Hamor was the father of Shechem and a resident of Shechem, whose inhabitants suffered a great loss under Abimelech. He also played a role in the story of Dinah, Jacob's daughter, who was criminally treated by him.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Hamor clarifies the political and familial dynamics between the patriarchal family and the indigenous Canaanite population, specifically illustrating the conflict arising from the violation of Dinah and the subsequent covenantal tensions.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Hamor reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Hamor in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Hamor clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Hamor." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/hamor/
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