Genesis 38:5

Then she gave birth to another son and named him Shelah; it was at Chezib that she gave birth to him.

Study Bible

Then she gave birth
The phrase "gave birth" in Hebrew is "וַתֵּלֶד" (vattēled), which is derived from the root "יָלַד" (yalad), meaning to bear or bring forth. This word is frequently used in the genealogical accounts of the Bible, emphasizing the continuation of family lines and God's providential plan through human history. The act of giving birth is a divine blessing and a fulfillment of God's command to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28). In the context of Genesis 38, the birth of another son signifies the ongoing narrative of Judah's family, which plays a crucial role in the lineage of the Messiah.

to another son
The mention of "another son" highlights the importance of progeny in the ancient Near Eastern culture. Sons were seen as carriers of the family name and inheritors of the family estate. In the broader biblical narrative, sons often represent the continuation of God's covenant promises. The birth of this son, Shelah, is significant as it sets the stage for future events in the lineage of Judah, which is pivotal in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

and named him Shelah
The name "Shelah" (שֵׁלָה) is of uncertain meaning, but it may be related to the Hebrew root "שָׁאַל" (sha'al), meaning to ask or inquire. Names in the Bible often carry prophetic or symbolic significance, reflecting the circumstances of birth or the aspirations of the parents. In the context of Genesis 38, the naming of Shelah is a key detail, as it later becomes a point of contention in the narrative involving Tamar, Judah's daughter-in-law.

it was at Kezib
"Kezib" (כְּזִיב) is a location mentioned only here in the Bible, and its exact historical or geographical identification remains uncertain. The name "Kezib" may be related to the Hebrew root "כָּזַב" (kazab), meaning to lie or deceive, which could carry thematic significance in the narrative. The mention of a specific location underscores the historical nature of the events and roots the account in a real-world context, reminding readers of the tangible reality of God's work in history.

that she gave birth to him
The repetition of the phrase "gave birth" emphasizes the significance of the event and the continuation of the family line. In the biblical narrative, the birth of children is often seen as a sign of God's blessing and favor. This particular birth, occurring at Kezib, is a pivotal moment in the account of Judah and his descendants, foreshadowing future developments in the lineage that will ultimately lead to the birth of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that through his offspring all nations would be blessed (Genesis 22:18).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shelah
The third son of Judah and his wife, the daughter of Shua. His birth is significant in the lineage of Judah, which is a key tribe in Israel's history.

2. Judah
One of the twelve sons of Jacob, whose lineage is crucial in the biblical account, leading to King David and ultimately to Jesus Christ.

3. Kezib
The place where Shelah was born. Its mention highlights the geographical and historical context of the account.

4. Judah's Wife (Daughter of Shua)
Although not named in this verse, she is the mother of Shelah and plays a role in the continuation of Judah's lineage.

5. Birth of Shelah
This event is part of the broader account of Judah's family, which has implications for the Messianic line.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Lineage
Understanding the genealogies in the Bible helps us see God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises through specific family lines.

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite human failures and complexities, God's purposes prevail, as seen in the continuation of Judah's line through Shelah.

The Role of Places in God's Plan
Kezib, though a minor detail, reminds us that God uses specific places and events to accomplish His divine purposes.

Faithfulness in the Midst of Imperfection
Judah's family account is marked by imperfection, yet God remains faithful, encouraging us to trust Him despite our own shortcomings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the birth of Shelah contribute to the overall account of Judah's family and its significance in biblical history?

2. In what ways does the mention of Kezib enhance our understanding of the historical and geographical context of this passage?

3. How can we see God's sovereignty at work in the family dynamics of Judah, and how does this encourage us in our own family situations?

4. What lessons can we learn from the genealogies in the Bible, particularly in relation to God's faithfulness and promises?

5. How does the account of Judah and his descendants, including Shelah, connect to the broader theme of redemption found in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:10
This verse speaks of the scepter not departing from Judah, indicating the significance of Judah's lineage, which includes Shelah.

Matthew 1:3
The genealogy of Jesus includes Judah and his descendants, showing the fulfillment of God's promises through this line.

1 Chronicles 4:21
This passage lists the descendants of Shelah, indicating his role in the broader account of Israel's tribes.