Genesis 38:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The intention behind the inspired Scriptures is to unveil the mystery of Christ through a variety of occurrences. One may compare Scripture to a grand and splendid city, adorned not with a single statue of the king, but with many, visible to all throughout its expanse. It is important to note that Scripture does not neglect a single narrative related to this mystery; instead, it encompasses all. Even if some aspects of these stories appear unrefined, they do not hinder the overall eloquence of what is being relayed. The Scriptures are not primarily focused on detailing the lives of the saints; their true aim is to convey a deeper understanding of the mystery of Christ through events that illuminate our discourse about Him, ensuring it remains authentic and profound. Therefore, it is by no means a criticism of Scripture that it occasionally seems to stray from the truth. For instance, the accounts of Judas and Tamar reveal for us the enigma of our Savior's domestic life.

In place of 'shepherd' in Hebrew, we encounter the term 'friend.' This terminology can be interpreted in two distinct ways since both words are comprised of the identical letters. Yet, 'friend' is pronounced as ree (רֵעֵ֥) while 'shepherd' is pronounced as roe (רֵעֵ֥ה).

First, when examining the context of the narrative, it becomes clear that she is not a woman of bad reputation, but a woman of virtue. Her intention was not to indulge in fleeting desires, but to seek the blessing of parenthood. Being childless was viewed as a source of shame and was even subject to societal penalties. Judah had promised her to his son as a wife, yet postponed the union. During this delay, the bridegroom passed away. The virtues of both chastity and widowhood did not flourish until the arrival of Christ. Grieving her childlessness, she resolved to employ her ingenuity to conceive and approached Judah when he was mourning his wife's death.

He traveled to Phimnah where the sheep were being sheared. This occasion was one of joy and communal celebration in ancient times (2 Sam. 13:23). Phimnah was located in the territory of Judah (Hab. 15:57).