Overview
Genesis 38 diverges from the main narrative of Joseph to tell the story of Judah, one of his brothers. This chapter deals with themes of family, responsibility, and social customs. It begins with Judah leaving his brothers and marrying a Canaanite woman, with whom he has three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah. After Er, his firstborn, is killed by God for being wicked, Judah asks Onan to fulfill his duty as a brother-in-law to Tamar, Er's widow, by providing offspring for his deceased brother. Onan's refusal leads to his own demise. Tamar, seeking justice and family security, disguises herself as a prostitute and seduces Judah, resulting in the birth of twins, Perez and Zerah. This account, while complex and controversial, is significant in biblical genealogy as Perez becomes an ancestor of King David and of Jesus Christ. The story is often interpreted as a narrative of human failing, divine judgment, and ultimately, redemption and continuity within the lineage of Christ.