Topical Encyclopedia Zarah, also spelled Zerah, is a significant figure in the genealogical and historical narratives of the Old Testament. He is one of the twin sons born to Judah, the fourth son of Jacob, and Tamar, Judah's daughter-in-law. The account of Zarah's birth is found in Genesis 38, a chapter that provides a detailed narrative of the complex and morally challenging circumstances surrounding his conception and birth.Birth and Early Life The account of Zarah's birth is a dramatic one, marked by unusual circumstances. Tamar, initially married to Judah's firstborn son Er, was left childless after Er's death. Following the levirate marriage custom, she was given in marriage to Onan, Judah's second son, who also died without providing offspring. When Judah hesitated to give his third son, Shelah, to Tamar, she took matters into her own hands. Disguising herself as a prostitute, Tamar seduced Judah, resulting in her pregnancy. During Tamar's labor, a remarkable event occurred. As recorded in Genesis 38:27-30 , "When the time came for her to give birth, there were twins in her womb. And as she was giving birth, one of them put out his hand; so the midwife took a scarlet thread and tied it around his wrist. 'This one came out first,' she announced. But when he pulled his hand back and his brother came out, she said, 'You have broken out first!' So he was named Perez. Then his brother came out with the scarlet thread on his wrist, and he was named Zerah." Significance in Biblical Genealogy Zarah's birth, alongside his twin brother Perez, holds genealogical significance in the biblical narrative. While Perez is more prominently featured in the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ (as noted in the genealogies of Matthew 1 and Luke 3), Zarah's descendants are also mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures. Descendants and Legacy The descendants of Zarah, often referred to as the Zerahites, are listed among the clans of the tribe of Judah. In the census of the Israelites in the wilderness, the Zerahites are noted as one of the prominent families (Numbers 26:20). Additionally, Zarah's lineage is mentioned in the context of the genealogies of the tribes of Israel, highlighting the enduring legacy of his family line. Symbolism and Themes The narrative of Zarah's birth is rich with symbolism and themes that resonate throughout the biblical text. The scarlet thread tied around Zarah's wrist has been interpreted by some scholars as a symbol of redemption and covenant, echoing the broader biblical theme of God's redemptive plan for humanity. The account also underscores themes of divine providence and the unexpected ways in which God's purposes are fulfilled, even through human frailty and moral complexity. Conclusion Zarah, though not as prominently featured as his brother Perez, remains an integral part of the biblical narrative. His account, woven into the tapestry of Israel's history, reflects the intricate and often surprising ways in which God's plans unfold through the lives of His people. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 38:30And afterward came out his brother, that had the scarlet thread on his hand: and his name was called Zarah. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 46:12 Numbers 26:20 1 Chronicles 2:4,6 Nehemiah 11:24 Library Letter cxxiii. To Ageruchia. The Book of Jubilees Appendix ix. List of Old Testament Passages Messianically Applied ... Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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