Genesis 38:17

"I will send you a young goat from my flock," Judah answered. But she replied, "Only if you leave me something as a pledge until you send it."

Study Bible

I will send you
This phrase indicates a promise or commitment. In the Hebrew context, the act of sending something was often a sign of good faith or an intention to fulfill an obligation. Judah's promise reflects a customary practice of ensuring trust in transactions. The Hebrew root for "send" is "שָׁלַח" (shalach), which can also imply a mission or dispatch, suggesting Judah's intent to fulfill his word.

a young goat
The young goat, or "גְּדִי" (gedi) in Hebrew, was a common form of currency or barter in ancient times. Livestock was a valuable asset, and offering a young goat signifies a substantial promise. This reflects the agrarian society of the time, where wealth and transactions were often measured in livestock.

from my flock
This phrase indicates personal ownership and responsibility. Judah is not offering something generic but something from his own possessions, which adds weight to his promise. The flock, or "צֹאן" (tso'n), was a symbol of wealth and status, and offering from one's own flock was a significant gesture of sincerity.

Judah promised
The act of promising, or "אָמַר" (amar) in Hebrew, is a verbal commitment that carries significant weight in biblical narratives. Judah's promise is a pivotal moment, reflecting his character and the cultural importance of one's word. In the biblical context, a promise was binding and held moral and social implications.

But she replied
This phrase introduces a negotiation or dialogue, highlighting the agency and assertiveness of the woman, Tamar, in this narrative. Her reply, or "אָמַר" (amar), the same root as Judah's promise, indicates a reciprocal engagement in the transaction, emphasizing the mutual understanding and agreement required in such dealings.

Only if you leave me something as a pledge
The concept of a pledge, or "עֵרָבוֹן" (eravon), is crucial in ancient transactions. It served as a security or guarantee that the promise would be fulfilled. This reflects the legal and social practices of the time, where pledges were common to ensure trust and accountability in agreements.

until you send it
This phrase sets a condition and a timeframe for the fulfillment of the promise. The use of "until," or "עַד" (ad), indicates a temporary state, emphasizing the expectation of completion. It underscores the importance of timely fulfillment of promises in maintaining trust and integrity in relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Judah
The fourth son of Jacob and Leah, Judah is a central figure in this account. He is one of the patriarchs of the tribes of Israel and plays a significant role in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

2. Tamar
The widow of Judah's son, Er. She disguises herself to secure her rights and future, highlighting themes of justice and righteousness.

3. The Young Goat
Represents the payment Judah promises to Tamar, symbolizing a transaction and a pledge of trust.

4. The Pledge
Judah's seal, cord, and staff, which Tamar requests as a guarantee of the promised payment. These items are significant as they represent Judah's identity and authority.

5. The Road to Timnah
The setting of this encounter, a place where significant events unfold, reflecting the journey and decisions of the characters involved.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Human Actions
This passage illustrates how human actions, even those that seem morally ambiguous, can be used by God to fulfill His purposes. It challenges us to consider how God might work through our own complex situations.

The Importance of Integrity and Promises
Judah's promise and the pledge he gives Tamar remind us of the importance of keeping our word and the integrity of our commitments.

God's Sovereignty in Redemption
Despite human failings, God's sovereign plan for redemption is evident. This encourages us to trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
Tamar's bold actions highlight the significant role women play in God's redemptive history, encouraging us to recognize and value the contributions of women in our faith communities.

Justice and Righteousness
Tamar's account raises questions about justice and righteousness, prompting us to reflect on how we pursue these values in our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Judah's promise to Tamar reflect the cultural and social norms of the time, and what can we learn from this about the importance of keeping our promises today?

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

3. How does the concept of a pledge or guarantee in this passage relate to the promises we make in our own lives, and what steps can we take to ensure we fulfill them?

4. What parallels can you draw between Tamar's actions and the account of Ruth, and how do these accounts together enhance our understanding of God's redemptive work?

5. How can we apply the themes of justice and righteousness from this passage to current issues in our society, and what role does our faith play in addressing these issues?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The preceding chapter provides context for Judah's character, including his role in selling Joseph into slavery, which sets the stage for his personal transformation.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus includes Judah and Tamar, highlighting God's redemptive plan through flawed human actions.

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
The Levirate marriage law, which underpins Tamar's actions to secure her future and lineage.

Ruth 4
The account of Ruth and Boaz, which parallels Tamar's account in themes of redemption and the continuation of a family line.