Definition: And he turned unto her by the way, and said, Go to, I pray thee, let me come in unto thee; (for he knew not that she [was] his daughter in law.) And she said, What wilt thou give me, that thou mayest come in unto me?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 38:16. It’s a really important and complex passage about a father and his wife, and it lays the groundwork for a significant story. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Jacob (later called Israel) is wrestling with an angel. This is the initial part of the verse – Jacob is in a difficult situation, grappling with a powerful, unseen force. The Angel Offers Help: The angel appears to Jacob and offers him help. He says, "Go to, I pray thee, let me come in unto thee." This is a very polite and pleading request. Jacob Hesitates – But the Angel Persists: Jacob initially refuses, but the angel doesn’t give up . He keeps talking and continues to beg. Putting it Together - The Core of the Verse The verse essentially states that Jacob was being offered help by an angel (and we can assume this is a divine being) while he was wrestling. He's hesitant, but the angel insists on coming in. What Does It Mean? – A Bit More Nuance This isn’t about a simple invitation to come inside. Here’s what it suggests: Jacob’s Status: The angel is referring to Jacob's wife, Rachel. The verse implies that Rachel was not Jacob's wife at the time of this encounter. A Legal Arrangement: This is a crucial part of the story. In ancient Jewish law, a man and his wife were considered “legal partners” (a “daughter-in-law”). This arrangement had legal implications – it was legally recognized as a marriage. The angel’s offer could be interpreted as acknowledging this established relationship. A Test or Opportunity: It's likely the angel is testing Jacob, probing him to see if he will be faithful and obedient to God. It also presents a potential opportunity for a new relationship – a partnership that could lead to descendants. Key Takeaway: The verse highlights a complex situation involving a father, his wife, and an angel. It’s about establishing a legal connection between two people – Rachel – and setting the stage for a future family. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated by scholars for centuries! There's no single, definitive interpretation. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the significance of the story within the larger narrative of Genesis? Give a brief summary of what happens next in the story?