Genesis 38:22

Genesis 38:22 Meaning and Explanation

And he returned to Judah, and said, I cannot find her; and also the men of the place said, that there was no harlot in this place.

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

Hirah returns to Judah unable to locate the woman or recover the pledges.

The Context of Genesis 38:22

Hirah reports back to Judah with the disappointing news that the woman cannot be found and the pledges are lost.

What Does Genesis 38:22 Mean?

Hirah returns to Judah and admits that he cannot find the woman. The men of the place have also confirmed that there was no prostitute in that location, suggesting the encounter itself was mysterious or perhaps never occurred to their knowledge.

Judah's pledges remain in Tamar's hands, and his attempt to recover them has failed. He is left suspended between his duty to retrieve his items and his inability to do so, a helplessness that mirrors Tamar's own suspension between widow and bride.

Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 38:22

What does Genesis 38:22 mean?

Hirah returns to Judah unable to locate the woman or recover the pledges.

What is the context of Genesis 38:22?

Hirah reports back to Judah with the disappointing news that the woman cannot be found and the pledges are lost.

Keep Studying Genesis 38

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.