Finding Healing from Violence & Trauma Sermon by Bishop Ngari Kariithi (Genesis 34)

Genesis 34 recounts the tragic story of Dinah, Jacob’s daughter, who is violated by Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite. In response, her brothers Simeon and Levi devise a plan under the guise of peace, then attack the unsuspecting city, killing all the men and plundering it. While their outrage springs from a desire to defend family honor, their actions bring shame and danger upon their household.This chapter reminds us that while righteous anger against injustice is natural, acting out of uncontrolled wrath rather than seeking God’s guidance leads to destruction. Zeal without wisdom can cause harm far greater than the original offense and damage our testimony before others.As believers, we’re called to bring our pain, anger, and desire for justice before God, trusting Him to direct our response in a way that honors Him and promotes true healing.