Judah and Tamar Genesis 38

 

Genesis 38 – Judah and Tamar

 

Judah was one of Jacob’s sons.  He was the one that convinced his brothers to sell Joseph into slavery.  After that, Judah left his brothers to start a life of his own.

Marrying a Canaanite woman was disobedience on Judah’s part.  He had three sons, the oldest was Er who was given to Tamar in marriage.  It was customary that when Er died and Tamar became a widow that the next son would marry the widow to preserve the family.  When the second died, Judah promised Tamar the third son when he comes of age.  Judah probably did not intend to keep his promise. Tamar’s purpose was good, but her plan was wicked.  Leaving the signet and staff was like leaving fingerprints, because each man’s was distinctive.  Judah was quick to condemn Tamar for sinning, but what about his own sins toward joseph and Tamar?  God does not approve these things; His people are acting like Canaanites which is why He removes them to the land of Goshen later on.  It is interesting that we can all see sin so clearly in other people, but we cannot see it within our own being.

Tamar is brought in to face her father-in-law.  Judah was adamant and was going to have her burnt until Tamar reveals his staff and signet which belongs to the father of the child.  Judah had to admit they belonged to him.  Judah had certainly lowered himself to the level of the Canaanites. 

It is an amazing thing that Jesus Christ, according to the flesh, should come through the line of Judah and Tamar.  When He came into the human family, He came into a sinful line.  He was made sin for us, He who know no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him (see 2 Corinthians 5:21)

 

 

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J. Vernon McGee commentary, Nelson Commentary,  NKJ version.

 

 

Please read the above scripture in order to know in your heart that any lesson you read is in alignment with God’s Word.  It is extremely important to study God’s Word on a daily basis and work out your salvation through His truths.