Shechem

Shechem

CityOld Testament
32.2167°N, 35.2833°E View on Map

Shechem was an important Canaanite city where Abraham first built an altar after entering the Promised Land. Jacob purchased land here and dug a well. Joseph's bones were buried here after the Exodus. Joshua gathered the tribes at Shechem for a covenant renewal ceremony.

Historical Timeline

Abraham builds an altar at Shechem; God promises the land to his offspring

GEN 12:6-7

Jacob buys land and settles near Shechem; Dinah is violated

GEN 33:18-34:31

Joshua renews the covenant at Shechem and sets up a stone of witness

JOS 24:1-28

Joseph's bones are buried at Shechem as he had requested

JOS 24:32

Rehoboam goes to Shechem to be made king; the kingdom divides

1KI 12:1-19

Notable Characters

Abraham
AbrahamFirst stopped at Shechem in Canaan and built an altar there
Jacob
JacobBought land near Shechem and later buried Joseph's bones there
Joseph
JosephHis bones were brought from Egypt and buried at Shechem
Joshua
JoshuaLed the covenant renewal ceremony at Shechem before his death

Related Locations

Bethel
Bethel

Both were important worship sites where Abraham built altars

Mount Gerizim
Mount Gerizim

The blessings and curses were proclaimed from Mount Gerizim near Shechem

Key Verses

Genesis 12:6-7Genesis 33:18-20Joshua 24:1-27

Frequently Asked Questions

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