Genesis 38:16

Not realizing that she was his daughter-in-law, he went over to her and said, "Come now, let me sleep with you." "What will you give me for sleeping with you?" she inquired.

Study Bible

Not realizing that she was his daughter-in-law
This phrase highlights Judah's ignorance of Tamar's identity. The Hebrew root for "realizing" is "nakar," which means to recognize or acknowledge. This lack of recognition is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan. Historically, this moment underscores the cultural norms of the time, where veiling could obscure identity, and it also reflects the moral complexities within the family of Israel. Spiritually, it serves as a reminder of how God can work through human failings to fulfill His purposes.

he went over to her by the roadside
The act of going over to Tamar by the roadside signifies a deliberate choice by Judah. The Hebrew word "natah" implies turning aside or deviating from one's path. This deviation is symbolic of Judah's moral and spiritual detour. The roadside setting is significant, as it represents a place of transition and decision, often associated with encounters that lead to significant life changes. In the broader biblical narrative, roadsides are places where God often intervenes in human affairs.

and said, 'Come now, let me sleep with you.'
Judah's proposition is direct and unambiguous. The phrase "let me sleep with you" uses the Hebrew "bo el," which is a euphemism for sexual relations. This encounter is not just a physical act but a pivotal moment in the lineage of the Messiah. The directness of Judah's words reflects the raw human desires that often lead to sin, yet God’s grace is evident as He uses even flawed human actions to bring about His divine plan.

'What will you give me to sleep with you?' she asked
Tamar's response is strategic and calculated. The Hebrew word for "give" is "natan," which means to offer or bestow. Her question is not merely transactional but reveals her awareness of the need for security and assurance. In the cultural context, this exchange highlights the vulnerability of women and the necessity for them to secure their future through whatever means available. Tamar's boldness and wisdom are instrumental in ensuring the continuation of Judah's line, which is crucial for the messianic lineage. This interaction serves as a testament to God's ability to use unexpected and unconventional means to fulfill His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Judah
One of the twelve sons of Jacob, Judah is a central figure in this account. He unknowingly engages in an encounter with his daughter-in-law, Tamar, which leads to significant consequences for his family line.

2. Tamar
The widow of Judah's son, she disguises herself to secure her rights and future within Judah's family, highlighting themes of justice and desperation.

3. The Roadside
The setting of this encounter, symbolizing a place of transition and decision, where Judah's actions have lasting implications.

4. The Disguise
Tamar's disguise is pivotal, as it leads to Judah's unintentional fulfillment of his duty to her, reflecting themes of deception and revelation.

5. The Pledge
Judah's promise to give Tamar a young goat in exchange for her company, which she secures with his seal, cord, and staff, items of personal identification and authority.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Human Actions
This passage highlights the complexity of human motives and actions. Judah's failure to fulfill his duty to Tamar leads to a series of events that are both morally complex and significant in God's plan.

God's Sovereignty in Imperfection
Despite human failings, God's purposes prevail. Tamar's inclusion in the lineage of Christ demonstrates how God can use imperfect situations for His glory.

The Importance of Justice and Righteousness
Tamar's actions, though unconventional, underscore the importance of justice and the fulfillment of familial obligations, challenging us to consider how we uphold justice in our own lives.

Repentance and Recognition
Judah's eventual acknowledgment of his wrongdoing serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance and the recognition of righteousness in others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Judah's encounter with Tamar reflect the broader themes of justice and righteousness found throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways does Tamar's account challenge our understanding of God's use of imperfect people and situations to fulfill His purposes?

3. How can Judah's eventual repentance and acknowledgment of Tamar's righteousness inform our own approach to recognizing and admitting our mistakes?

4. What lessons can we learn from Tamar's determination to secure her rights and future, and how can this apply to our pursuit of justice in today's world?

5. How does the inclusion of Tamar in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:3) impact our understanding of God's redemptive plan and the role of seemingly flawed individuals within it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38:26
Later in the chapter, Judah acknowledges his wrongdoing, which connects to themes of repentance and recognition of righteousness.

Matthew 1:3
Tamar is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, showing how God can work through flawed human actions to fulfill His purposes.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
The Levirate marriage law provides context for Tamar's actions, as she seeks to secure her place and future within Judah's family.