Three Disputed Cities

After Yakov Avinu’s incident with the angel, the Torah mentions a very brief and significant Pasuk. Referring to Shechem it’s written, “ויקן את חלקת השדה מיד בני חמור אבי שכם.” The Torah is telling us that Yakov purchased a portion of the field from the sons of Chamor, the father of Shechem.

This is the source that the Torah documents the purchase of the city of Shechem. Parshat Chayei Sara documents Avraham’s purchase of the city of Chevron. And King David purchased Jerusalem from the Yevusim.

These three cities in particular are mentioned in Tanach as belonging to the Jewish people. It’s no wonder that these three cities carry with them the most challenges and controversy.

It is important that we know the truth and are able to know and quote the sources proving our rights to Eretz Yisrael.