Genesis 38:13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

From the outset, if one examines the context of the events, it becomes clear that she is not a woman of bad reputation but rather a virtuous individual. Her intention was not to seek fleeting passions but to attain the blessing of motherhood. In her society, childlessness was seen as shameful and could even be penalized by law. Judah promised her in marriage to his son but failed to follow through with the union. During the period of his delay, the bridegroom passed away. Before Christ's advent, neither virginity nor widowhood was held in genuine regard. Grieved by her barrenness, she resorted to cleverness in hopes of conceiving and approached Judah when he was grieving the loss of his wife.