Reading for June 30th

 Read Genesis 38.12-30. In verse 14: In light of Tamar's deception and Judah's blindness to what is actually going on, the meanings of the place names are significant. Entrance to Enaim means "opening of the eyes." Timnah means "concealed." In verse 16: Let me come into you is a request to have sexual intercourse. In verse 18: The signet ring was a ring with a distinctive design or stamp which could be used as a personal signature on official or commercial documents. It was often tied to a cord or worn around the neck.. The stall was a walking stick, often with a distinctive family emblem carved on it, The modern day equivalent of your signet, cord, and staff would be your driver's license and all your credit cards. In verses 21-22: Judah's messenger asks for the temple prostitute ("kedeshah," literally "holy woman," v. 21). The story assumes the presence of prostitutes associated with febrility rituals at Canaan temples. The term "temple prostitute" is more dignified than the term for an ordinary prostitute ("zonah," v.22). In verses 28-30: The twin boys repeat the experience of the twins Jacob and Esau. The second born son comes out ahead of the first born son (25,22-24).The name Perez means "breach" or "breaking forth" out of the womb ahead of his older brother. Zerah means "brightness." perhaps in reference to the bright red or crimson thread. Perez is an ancestor of the great king David (Ruth 4.18-22). Like Perez, David was also the youngest among his brothers (1 Sam 16.1-13). Comments or Questions...