Genesis EraOld Testament

Tamar

Genesis Ruth Matthew

When

c. 1885–1880 BC· In the text

Placed by the story. The date is a rough guide. How the dates are worked out

Name meaning

"date palm" · Hebrew

About

Daughter-in-law of Judah, married to his eldest son Er and then, after Er's death, to his brother Onan, both of whom died. Denied Judah's third son Shelah, she disguised herself and conceived twins, Perez and Zerah, by Judah himself. When accused, she produced Judah's own seal and staff, leading him to declare 'She is more righteous than I.' She is named in the genealogy of Jesus.

Relationships

SpouseJudahFather of her twin sons

SonPerezSon, ancestor of David and Jesus

Key Scripture AppearancesKJV

Genesis 38:6

And Judah took a wife for Er his firstborn, whose name was Tamar.Genesis 38:6, KJV

Genesis 38:24

And it came to pass about three months after, that it was told Judah, saying, Tamar thy daughter in law hath played the harlot; and also, behold, she is with child by whoredom. And Judah said, Bring her forth, and let her be burnt.Genesis 38:24, KJV

Genesis 38:29

And it came to pass, as he drew back his hand, that, behold, his brother came out: and she said, How hast thou broken forth? this breach be upon thee: therefore his name was called Pharez.Genesis 38:29, KJV

Ruth 4:12

And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the LORD shall give thee of this young woman.Ruth 4:12, KJV

Matthew 1:3

And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram;Matthew 1:3, KJV

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