GENESIS 38
Marrying a Canaanite woman was disobedience on Judah’s part (24:3;
It was expected that the next son would marry the widow and thus preserve the family, but Judah probably did not intend to keep his promise (v. 11). Tamar’s purpose was good, but her plan was wicked. Leaving the signet and staff was like leaving fingerprints, because each man’s was distinctive. Judah was quick to condemn Tamar for sinning, but what about his own sins toward Joseph and Tamar?
Why is this sordid chapter in the Bible? For one thing, we see the contrast between Judah’s sin and Joseph’s victory (chap. 39), and we realize the importance of purity. But the main reason is to add another link in the Redeemer’s family tree (v.