Genesis 38:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And he turned unto her by the way, and said, Go to, I pray thee, let me come in unto thee; (for he knew not that she was his daughter in law.) And she said, What wilt thou give me, that thou mayest come in unto me?”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Judah proposes to lie with her and asks what payment she requires.
The Context of Genesis 38:16
Judah approaches the disguised Tamar as a customer, establishing the transaction that will expose his character.
What Does Genesis 38:16 Mean?
Judah turns aside from the road toward Tamar and requests entry to her, explicitly noting that he did not know she was his daughter-in-law. He asks what she will require as payment for her services.
Judah's participation is willing and deliberate. He does not question her identity or virtue; he assumes the transaction is straightforward. His request for terms reveals that he both recognizes the transactional nature of what he proposes and intends to compensate her.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 38:16
What does Genesis 38:16 mean?
Judah proposes to lie with her and asks what payment she requires.
What is the context of Genesis 38:16?
Judah approaches the disguised Tamar as a customer, establishing the transaction that will expose his character.