Pharez and Zerah are twin sons of Judah and Tamar, whose account is recounted in the Book of Genesis. Their birth is significant in the lineage of the tribes of Israel and the genealogy of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Account

The narrative of Pharez and Zerah is found in Genesis 38. Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, had three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah. Tamar was initially married to Er, but after his death, she was given to Onan in a levirate marriage. Onan's refusal to produce offspring for his brother led to his death by divine judgment. Judah promised Tamar that she would marry Shelah when he came of age, but he did not fulfill this promise.

Tamar, seeking to secure her place in the family and fulfill her duty to produce offspring, disguised herself as a prostitute and seduced Judah. Unaware of her identity, Judah lay with her, and she conceived twins. When her pregnancy was discovered, Judah initially condemned her to death for immorality, but Tamar revealed Judah's personal items, which he had given her as a pledge, proving his paternity. Judah acknowledged his wrongdoing, saying, "She is more righteous than I, since I did not give her to my son Shelah" (Genesis 38:26).

The Birth of Pharez and Zerah

The birth of the twins is described in Genesis 38:27-30. During labor, Zerah extended his hand, and the midwife tied a scarlet thread around it, marking him as the firstborn. However, he withdrew his hand, and Pharez was born first. The midwife exclaimed, "How you have broken out!" (Genesis 38:29), and thus he was named Pharez, meaning "breach" or "breakthrough." Zerah, meaning "brightness" or "scarlet," was born afterward.

Significance in Biblical Lineage

Pharez holds a prominent place in biblical genealogy. He is listed in the genealogy of King David (Ruth 4:18-22) and, more importantly, in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:3; Luke 3:33). This lineage underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and grace, as Pharez's birth was the result of a complex and morally challenging situation.

Tribal Legacy

Pharez became the ancestor of the Pharezites, a significant clan within the tribe of Judah. The descendants of Pharez were known for their strength and leadership within the tribe. The tribe of Judah, from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended, played a central role in the history of Israel.

Symbolism and Themes

The account of Pharez and Zerah highlights themes of redemption, divine providence, and the fulfillment of God's promises despite human failings. Tamar's actions, though unconventional, ensured the continuation of Judah's line, which was crucial for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. The narrative also illustrates the reversal of expectations, as Pharez, not Zerah, became the forebear of the royal line, emphasizing God's ability to work through unexpected circumstances.

In summary, the account of Pharez and Zerah is a testament to God's faithfulness and the intricate tapestry of His plan for humanity, woven through the lives of individuals and their choices.Genesis 38:27-30
And it came to pass in the time of her travail, that, behold, twins were in her womb.
Nave's Topical Index

What was the story of Jacob and Esau? | GotQuestions.org

Who are the biblical patriarchs? | GotQuestions.org

How are predestination and election connected with foreknowledge? | GotQuestions.org

Twins: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus