Genesis 38:20 - Judah's pledge remains unclaimed?

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bereishit 38:20) describes Yehuda's attempt to fulfill his promise to send a young goat (גְּדִי הָעִזִּים) to the woman he believed to be a prostitute (later revealed to be his daughter-in-law Tamar) in exchange for the pledge (עֵרָבוֹן) he had left with her—his signet, cord, and staff. The verse highlights Yehuda's effort to rectify his earlier actions by sending his Adullamite friend, Chirah, to retrieve his belongings discreetly.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Bereishit 38:20) explains that Yehuda sent the goat through his friend Chirah the Adullamite rather than going himself because he was embarrassed about the incident. Rashi notes that Yehuda acted with discretion to avoid public shame, as he was a prominent leader (see Rashi on Bereishit 38:12). The phrase "וְלֹא מְצָאָהּ" ("but he found her not") indicates that Tamar had deliberately concealed her identity, ensuring that Yehuda would not retrieve his pledge until the proper time.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 85:9) elaborates on this episode, teaching that Yehuda's actions were part of a divine plan. By sending the goat and failing to locate Tamar, Yehuda was led to publicly acknowledge his role in her pregnancy, demonstrating his integrity. The Midrash emphasizes that this moment was a tikkun (rectification) for Yehuda’s earlier reluctance to allow his son Shelah to marry Tamar (Bereishit 38:11).

Rambam's Ethical Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 2:1) discusses the importance of acknowledging one's mistakes publicly when necessary. Yehuda’s eventual admission, "צָדְקָה מִמֶּנִּי" ("She is more righteous than I," Bereishit 38:26), exemplifies true repentance. His initial attempt to avoid scandal by sending an intermediary (Chirah) shows the tension between personal dignity and moral responsibility.

Symbolism of the Goat

Some commentators (see Kli Yakar, Bereishit 38:20) suggest that the goat (גְּדִי הָעִזִּים) alludes to the future atonement process. Just as goats were used for sacrifices (e.g., the scapegoat on Yom Kippur), Yehuda’s sending of the goat hints at his eventual repentance and reconciliation.

Lessons from the Verse

• Discretion vs. Accountability: Yehuda’s use of an intermediary reflects the balance between avoiding public shame and taking responsibility for one’s actions.
• Divine Providence: The failure to find Tamar was orchestrated to bring Yehuda to a higher level of teshuvah (repentance).
• Leadership and Humility: Yehuda’s eventual public admission set a precedent for future leaders to prioritize truth over reputation.