King James Version
What Does Genesis 38:2 Mean?
“And Judah saw there a daughter of a certain Canaanite, whose name was Shuah; and he took her, and went in unto her.”
Context
1
And it came to pass at that time, that Judah went down from his brethren, and turned in to a certain Adullamite, whose name was Hirah.
2
And Judah saw there a daughter of a certain Canaanite, whose name was Shuah; and he took her, and went in unto her.
3
And she conceived, and bare a son; and he called his name Er.
4
And she conceived again, and bare a son; and she called his name Onan.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **Canaanite.**—This is rendered in the Targum *merchant, *and so the Authorised Version translates Canaanite in Proverbs 31:24. In favour of this view is the fact, that the marriage of Simeon with a Canaanitish woman is regarded as an act so exceptional, as to be worth recording (Genesis 46:10). But we may well doubt whether, at so early an age, the terms Canaanite and merchant had become synonymous. “Shuah” was the name of the woman’s father, as appears plainly in the Hebrew. (See also Genesis 38:12.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Genesis 38:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Genesis 38:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge