Genesis 38:22-24

38:22 So he returned to Judah and said, “I couldn’t find her. Moreover, the men of the place said, ‘There has been no cult prostitute here.’” 38:23 Judah said, “Let her keep the things ¹  for herself. Otherwise we will appear to be dishonest. ²  I did indeed send this young goat, but you couldn’t find her.”

38:24 After three months Judah was told, ³  “Your daughter-in-law Tamar has turned to prostitution, ⁴  and as a result she has become pregnant.” ⁵  Judah said, “Bring her out and let her be burned!”

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¹ tn The words “the things” have been supplied in the translation for stylistic reasons.

² tn Heb “we will become contemptible.” The Hebrew word בּוּז (buz) describes the contempt that a respectable person would have for someone who is worthless, foolish, or disreputable.

³ tn Heb “it was told to Judah, saying.”

⁴ tn Or “has been sexually promiscuous.” The verb may refer here to loose or promiscuous activity, not necessarily prostitution.

⁵ tn Heb “and also look, she is with child by prostitution.”