Genesis 35:5 (KJV)

What does Genesis 35:5 mean?

Genesis 35:5 says that as Jacob and his family traveled, a fear sent by God fell on the nearby cities, so no one chased after them. This verse shows that God protected Jacob’s family from harm as they moved through potentially hostile territory.

Jacob, his household, and all those with him were leaving Shechem after a violent incident involving his sons. The text highlights that the surrounding cities did not pursue or attack Jacob’s group, not because of their own strength, but because a special "terror of God" kept others away. This protection allowed Jacob’s family to continue their journey safely.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 35:5

• "terror" (חִתָּה, ḥittah): This word means a deep fear or dread. The verse emphasizes that it was not just ordinary fear, but a supernatural dread sent by God that kept the cities from attacking.
• "God" (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim): The use of this word underlines that the source of the terror was divine, not natural events or human intimidation.
• "pursue" (רָדַף, radaph): This verb means to chase or follow after with hostile intent. The verse makes clear that the people of the cities did not even attempt to go after Jacob’s family.

Why Genesis 35:5 matters

• Genesis 35:5 clarifies that Jacob’s safety was not due to his own power or planning, but because God actively intervened to protect him.
• The verse connects to the wider story by showing God’s faithfulness to His promises, especially after Jacob’s sons’ actions put the family at risk.
• It helps explain how Jacob’s family could travel safely through a region where they might have expected retaliation, showing God’s control over the situation.