“And she arose, and went away, and laid by her vail from her, and put on the garments of her widowhood.”
Genesis 38:19 is a verse from the Old Testament, which narrates a significant event in the life of Judah, the son of Jacob (Israel). This chapter focuses on a series of events involving Judah and his daughter-in-law Tamar.
To better understand this verse, it’s essential to examine the context and the broader narrative of Genesis 38. In this chapter, Judah’s eldest son, Er, was married to Tamar, but he died childless. In accordance with the Levirate law, which required a brother to marry his deceased brother’s widow to produce offspring in the brother’s name, Judah instructed his second son, Onan, to fulfill this duty:However, Onan refused to provide offspring for his brother, and God took his life as a consequence.
After the death of both Er and Onan, Judah was hesitant to give his third son, Shelah, to Tamar in marriage. Tamar, realizing that Judah was not fulfilling his obligations, took matters into her own hands to secure her future.
In the preceding verses, Tamar disguised herself as a prostitute and waited for Judah, who unknowingly approached her. Not recognizing Tamar, Judah made an agreement with her:to exchange a kid from his flock for her services. Since Judah did not have the kid with him at the time, Tamar asked for a pledge until Judah could send the promised payment.
Now, let’s focus on Genesis 38:19 itself: “And she arose, and went away, and laid by her vail from her, and put on the garments of her widowhood.” This verse describes Tamar’s actions after her encounter with Judah. She arose and left the place where she had met him. Tamar then took off her veil, which she had been wearing to conceal her identity as a prostitute, and put on the garments of her widowhood.
By changing her appearance and returning to her widow’s attire, Tamar resumed her role:as a mourning widow, concealing her true intentions and maintaining her righteousness in the eyes of others. This verse demonstrates Tamar’s shrewdness and determination in seeking justice and ensuring her rightful position within Judah’s family.
The story of Tamar and Judah is notable because it reveals various themes, including the importance of fulfilling obligations:the consequences of disobedience, and the role of justice. It also showcases God’s sovereignty, as His providence is ultimately fulfilled through the lineage of Judah.
Overall, Genesis 38:19 is a pivotal verse within the broader narrative of Tamar and Judah. It highlights Tamar’s resourcefulness:in her pursuit of justice and her commitment to fulfilling her role within the family, while also shedding light on the consequences of Judah’s negligence in upholding his responsibilities.
