“And it was told Tamar, saying, Behold thy father in law goeth up to Timnath to shear his sheep.”
In order to understand the context of this verse, let’s briefly review the background of Genesis 38. The chapter focuses on Judah, one of the sons of Jacob (Israel). Judah had three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah. Er married a woman named Tamar, but he was wicked in the sight of the Lord and died prematurely. Following the custom of levirate marriage, Onan married Tamar to fulfill his duty to his deceased brother, but he also died due to his disobedience. Tamar was then left as a childless widow.
Now let’s look specifically at Genesis 38:13. Here we see that Tamar receives information about her father-in-law, Judah. It is reported to her that Judah is going up to Timnath to shear his sheep. This information becomes significant in the unfolding of the story that follows.
Genesis 38:14-30 narrates a rather complex account involving Tamar’s interaction with Judah, which ultimately leads to her becoming pregnant with twins. Tamar, wanting to secure her right to bear children within Judah’s family line, employs a deceptive strategy. She disguises herself as a prostitute and sits by the roadside where she knows Judah will pass. When Judah sees her, he propositions her, not recognizing her true identity. Tamar agrees to sleep with him but asks for collateral in the form of his seal, cord, and staff. After their encounter, Tamar conceives and becomes pregnant.
The passage you mentioned, Genesis 38:13, sets the stage for Tamar’s plan by informing her that Judah is going up to Timnath to shear his sheep. This knowledge allows Tamar to strategically position herself in a way that will ensure her encounter with Judah.
This story raises ethical questions regarding Tamar’s actions and the circumstances surrounding the events. While Tamar’s actions may be seen as morally questionable, it is important to note that her actions were driven by a desire to fulfill her cultural and familial responsibilities. In the end, Judah acknowledges his wrongdoing and recognizes Tamar’s righteousness.
Overall, this verse serves as an introduction to the subsequent events and highlights the intricate dynamics and complexities of human relationships and divine providence.
