Topical Encyclopedia Pharez, also spelled Perez, is a significant figure in the genealogical records of the Bible, particularly in the lineage of the tribe of Judah. He is the son of Judah and Tamar, as recorded in Genesis 38. Pharez's birth was marked by unusual circumstances, as he was born as a result of Tamar's strategic actions to secure her rights within the family lineage after being widowed by Judah's sons. His name, meaning "breach" or "bursting forth," reflects the dramatic nature of his birth.Genealogical Significance Pharez holds a prominent place in the genealogical records of Israel. He is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospels, underscoring his importance in the Messianic line. Matthew 1:3 states, "Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram." This lineage highlights the fulfillment of God's promises through the tribe of Judah, from which the Messiah would come. Role in the Return from the Captivity The descendants of Pharez played a crucial role in the return from the Babylonian captivity. After the fall of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile, the Jewish people were allowed to return to their homeland under the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia. Among those who returned were the descendants of Pharez, who were instrumental in the restoration of Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple. In the book of Nehemiah, the descendants of Pharez are mentioned as part of the group that resettled in Jerusalem. Nehemiah 11:4-6 records, "Some of the descendants of Judah settled in Jerusalem: Athaiah son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalalel, a descendant of Perez; and Maaseiah son of Baruch, the son of Col-Hozeh, the son of Hazaiah, the son of Adaiah, the son of Joiarib, the son of Zechariah, a descendant of Shelah. The descendants of Perez who settled in Jerusalem totaled 468 men of valor." This passage highlights the valor and leadership of the descendants of Pharez, who were among the key figures in the reestablishment of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. Their presence and contributions were vital to the spiritual and physical rebuilding efforts during this pivotal period in Israel's history. Legacy and Theological Implications The legacy of Pharez and his descendants is deeply intertwined with the themes of redemption and restoration. Despite the circumstances of his birth, Pharez's lineage became a conduit for God's redemptive plan, culminating in the birth of Jesus Christ. The return from captivity and the role of Pharez's descendants in rebuilding Jerusalem serve as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises. The account of Pharez and his descendants is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and grace, working through imperfect human circumstances to bring about His divine purposes. The inclusion of Pharez in the genealogy of Christ emphasizes the inclusivity of God's plan, incorporating individuals from diverse and unexpected backgrounds into the unfolding narrative of salvation history. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 11:4,6And at Jerusalem dwelled certain of the children of Judah, and of the children of Benjamin. Of the children of Judah; Athaiah the son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalaleel, of the children of Perez; Nave's Topical Index Library Appendix ix. List of Old Testament Passages Messianically Applied ... Letter cxxiii. To Ageruchia. Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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