Shechem is an important and frequently mentioned city in the Old Testament, located in the hill country of Ephraim, between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal. It holds deep historical and covenantal significance throughout the Scriptures.
Shechem is first mentioned in Genesis 12:6, when Abram passed through the land and came to the terebinth tree of Moreh at Shechem. There, the Lord appeared to Abram and promised to give the land to his descendants, and Abram built an altar to the Lord (Genesis 12:7).
Later, Shechem becomes associated with Jacob. After his return from Padan Aram, Jacob came to Shechem and purchased land there (Genesis 33:18–19). This site was later given to Joseph as an inheritance (Joshua 24:32). A tragic event also occurred at Shechem when Jacob’s daughter Dinah was defiled by Shechem, the son of Hamor, leading to a violent response from her brothers Simeon and Levi (Genesis 34).
Shechem plays a pivotal role in Israel’s covenant history. In Deuteronomy 11:29 and Joshua 8:33–35, the Israelites were instructed to gather at Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal, with Shechem in between, to pronounce blessings and curses according to the Law. Joshua renewed the covenant with Israel at Shechem near the end of his life. He challenged the people to choose whom they would serve and declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15). A stone was set up under the terebinth tree as a witness to this covenant (Joshua 24:25–27).
After Solomon’s death, Shechem became the initial capital of the northern kingdom under Jeroboam (1 Kings 12:1, 25), highlighting its political importance. However, idolatry and division followed, leading to long-lasting consequences for the northern tribes.
Shechem stands as a place of divine promise, covenant renewal, and crucial decisions. It is where God confirmed His promises to the patriarchs, where the Law was upheld, and where the people were called to reaffirm their loyalty to the Lord. It reminds readers that God’s blessings are closely tied to covenant faithfulness and obedience.
