Definition: When Judah saw her, he thought her [to be] an harlot; because she had covered her face.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 38:15. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Bible. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: This verse comes after Jacob (a son of Isaac) has a dream where God tells him that his brother Esau will kill him. As Jacob is wrestling with an angel, he sees his father, Isaac, and his brother Esau, but Esau is covered in a dark cloth. This cloth symbolizes a covering of shame or guilt – it’s like a veil being placed over something unpleasant. What Does “harlot” Mean? In the original Hebrew text, "harlot" (or "loose breast") means unworthy or unclean . It wasn't about physical attractiveness; it was about a lack of dignity and moral standing. It suggested that Esau was behaving in a way that was considered shameful to his family and God. So, what’s the implication? Jacob, witnessing this scene, interprets Esau as a traitor and a disgrace to his lineage. He believes Esau has betrayed his father by fleeing into exile. This is a crucial moment where Jacob begins to judge Esau harshly and starts to feel deeply troubled about his brother’s actions. In short: The verse paints Esau as someone who caused shame and conflict within the family, prompting Jacob to question his own loyalty and understanding of his family's history. Important Note: This is a complex story with layers of symbolism. It speaks to themes of betrayal, judgment, and the consequences of sin – all of which are deeply relevant to human experience. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about its significance in the Bible as a whole?