And he said, I will send thee a kid from the flock. And she said, Wilt thou give me a pledge, till thou send it?
GENESIS 38:17KJVWhat does Genesis 38:17 mean?
Genesis 38:17 shows Judah promising to send Tamar a young goat from his flock as payment, and Tamar asking for a pledge until he delivers it. This exchange sets up a guarantee so Tamar can be sure Judah will keep his word.
In this scene, Judah is speaking to Tamar, who is disguised as a prostitute by the roadside. Judah offers a "kid" (a young goat) as payment for her services, but since he does not have it with him, Tamar wisely asks for a pledge—something valuable to hold onto until he sends the goat. This moment is crucial because the pledge will later play a key role in the story’s unfolding events.
The Hebrew behind Genesis 38:17
- The word for "kid" is עֵז (ʿez) and גְּדִי (gəḏî), both meaning a young goat. The use of this specific animal as payment highlights the everyday barter practices of the time.
- The word for "pledge" is עֵרוֹן (ʿērāvon), meaning a guarantee or security. Tamar’s request for a pledge shows her caution and foresight, ensuring Judah cannot back out of the agreement.
Why Genesis 38:17 matters
- This verse clarifies that Tamar is not acting impulsively but is carefully protecting her interests by demanding a pledge.
- The pledge Tamar receives becomes a key piece of evidence later in the chapter, dramatically affecting Judah’s life and reputation.
- Understanding this exchange helps the reader see the social customs and personal dynamics at play in the story, especially the importance of trust and accountability in agreements.