Gen 38:17-20 | TNotes | STEP | 38:17 It would be normal for Tamar to ask for a pledge if the man did not have the money to pay. A woman in such a position would not trust anyone to send the money.

c38:20-23►

‏ Genesis 38:17-20

38:17 ^a It would be normal for Tamar to ask for a pledge if the man did not have the money to pay. A woman in such a position would not trust anyone to send the money.
38:18 ^b identification seal: A stone or metal cylinder was engraved with distinctive designs and was usually worn around the neck on a cord; when rolled onto clay or wax, it left a distinct impression.
Summary for Gen 38:20-23: 38:20-23 ^c Judah had gone in to Tamar as a regular prostitute (Hebrew zonah, 38:15 ^d), whereas Hirah was mistakenly looking for a shrine prostitute (Hebrew qedeshah), of which there were none.