Definition: Then he asked the men of that place, saying, Where [is] the harlot, that [was] openly by the way side? And they said, There was no harlot in this [place].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 38:21. It’s a really important and slightly unsettling passage about God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God is Watching: In the beginning, God was watching over humanity. He saw that humans were creating and living in a way that wasn't quite right – they were getting too comfortable and focused on their own desires. A Problem Arises: A man named Cain, who was a rebel against God, did something terrible – he murdered his brother Abel. This act of violence broke the peace between humans and God. God’s Concern Grows: Because of this transgression, God became deeply concerned. He knew that this situation would lead to more problems. What the Verse Says – The Question & Answer: The verse says: “Then he asked the men of that place, saying, Where is the harlot, that was openly by the way side?” “Harlot” - It’s a tricky word! In this context, "harlot" means a woman who is loose, unrestrained, and often considered to be seductive or immoral. It suggests someone who is not properly bound by God's law. “Openly by the way side” – This is key. The men of that place were describing a woman who was wandering around freely, without any sense of purpose or connection to something greater. So, what’s the point? God is asking: “Where is this woman who isn't following God’s rules, and is just wandering about?” It suggests there’s a female figure – a rebellious spirit – that needs to be addressed. The Significance (What it Means): Human Fall: This verse is often seen as the beginning of humanity’s fall from grace. It highlights our tendency towards selfishness, rebellion, and straying away from God's will. Moral Responsibility: It lays the groundwork for later stories about sin and the need for repentance and seeking forgiveness. In short, this verse is a foundational moment in the Bible that points to humanity’s broken relationship with God and the consequences of our choices. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse further? For example, I could: Discuss the context of Genesis 38:21 within the larger narrative of creation and the fall of man. Explore the symbolism behind the word "harlot." Connect it to other stories in the Bible about sin and redemption?