Pharez, also spelled Perez, is a significant figure in the genealogical records of the Bible, particularly in the lineage of the tribe of Judah. His account is found in the Book of Genesis, where he is introduced as one of the twin sons born to Judah and Tamar. The account of his birth is both dramatic and pivotal, highlighting themes of redemption and divine providence.

Biblical Account

The narrative of Pharez's birth is recorded in Genesis 38. Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, had three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah. Tamar was initially married to Er, Judah's firstborn, who was wicked in the sight of the LORD and was put to death. Following the custom of levirate marriage, Tamar was then given to Onan, who also displeased the LORD and died. Judah promised Tamar that she would be given to his youngest son, Shelah, when he came of age, but he failed to fulfill this promise.

In a bold move to secure her place in the family lineage, Tamar disguised herself as a prostitute and seduced Judah, resulting in her pregnancy. When Judah learned of her pregnancy, he initially condemned her to death for immorality, but upon discovering that he was the father, he acknowledged his wrongdoing, saying, "She is more righteous than I, since I did not give her to my son Shelah" (Genesis 38:26).

Tamar gave birth to twins, and during the delivery, an unusual event occurred. As the first child began to emerge, the midwife tied a scarlet thread around his wrist to mark him as the firstborn. However, he drew back his hand, and his brother emerged first. The midwife exclaimed, "How you have broken out!" Therefore, he was named Pharez, meaning "breach" or "breaking through" (Genesis 38:29).

Genealogical Significance

Pharez holds a crucial place in biblical genealogy. He is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, underscoring his importance in the messianic line. Matthew 1:3 states, "Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron," linking Pharez directly to the lineage of King David and ultimately to Jesus.

The tribe of Judah, from which Pharez descended, became one of the most prominent tribes of Israel. It was prophesied that the scepter would not depart from Judah (Genesis 49:10), and Pharez's lineage played a vital role in fulfilling this prophecy through the Davidic line.

Cultural and Theological Implications

The account of Pharez is rich with cultural and theological implications. It highlights the themes of justice, repentance, and God's sovereignty in using flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes. Tamar's actions, though unconventional, were vindicated by Judah's admission of guilt, and her place in the genealogy of Christ underscores the inclusivity of God's redemptive plan.

Pharez's birth narrative also serves as a reminder of the unexpected ways in which God can bring about His plans. Despite the circumstances of his conception, Pharez became a forefather of the royal line of David, illustrating that God's purposes transcend human failures and societal norms.

In summary, Pharez is a testament to God's ability to work through complex and challenging situations to fulfill His divine promises. His inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus Christ highlights the grace and redemption that are central to the biblical narrative.Genesis 38:29
And it came to pass, as he drew back his hand, that, behold, his brother came out: and she said, How have you broken forth? this breach be on you: therefore his name was called Pharez.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 2:4
And Tamar his daughter in law bore him Pharez and Zerah. All the sons of Judah were five.
Nave's Topical Index

Letter cxxiii. To Ageruchia.
... The more so that she has a posthumous son named after his father Simplicius and
thus ... [3301] What shall I say of Tamar who bore twin sons, Pharez and Zarah? ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cxxiii to ageruchia.htm

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