God did not want Jacob to remain in the land of Shechem because his family was exposed to danger, idolatry and impurity. The moral and spiritual differences between Bethel and Shechem were enormous, and these differences influenced Jacob and his children.

Because of this, the Most High said to Jacob, “Arise, go up to Bethel” (v. 1). God commanded him to return to the place where he had previously erected and Altar. The Lord had appeared to him there in a dream, confirming a Covenant with him (28.10-15).

That place had even been called the House of God. The Lord waited for him in Bethel (31.13), but he settled in Shechem. This visit brought trouble to Jacob and his family (34.1-2). How many of us would avoid suffering if we carefully followed God’s Direction?