← Back to Search

Genesis 38:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
And he turned unto her by the way, and said, Go to, I pray thee, let me come in unto thee; (for he knew not that she was his daughter in law.) And she said, What wilt thou give me, that thou mayest come in unto me?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

He went over to her by the road and said, 'Please, let me sleep with you' (because he didn't know she was his daughter-in-law). And she said, 'What will you give me if I let you sleep with me?'

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse describes Judah unknowingly propositioning his disguised daughter-in-law Tamar for sexual relations, and her asking what payment he will offer.

📚 Historical Context

In the biblical narrative of Genesis 38, Judah, one of Jacob's sons, is navigating the challenges of family lineage after the deaths of his sons, including Tamar's husbands. Tamar disguises herself as a prostitute to secure her rightful place in the family line, as cultural customs required a widow to have children through her husband's relatives. This encounter highlights themes of deception and divine providence in the broader story of Israel's ancestors.

Ask the AI Assistant

Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.

Share or Save