Definition: And Tamar his daughter in law bare him Pharez and Zerah. All the sons of Judah [were] five.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 2:4. It's a really interesting little piece about a woman’s role in the early days of Israel! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Verse Says: “And Tamar his daughter in law bare him Pharez and Zerah.” Let’s unpack it: Tamar: This is a very important name. In Jewish tradition, Tamar was known for being exceptionally clever and resourceful. She was the only one of her brothers (the sons of Judah) who wasn't given a portion in the inheritance when they were sold into slavery. She cleverly tricked her wicked stepmother to gain a larger share of the family’s wealth. Her daughter in law: This means she was Tamar’s wife. Bare him: This is a bit tricky, but it means “to be with him” or "to live with him." She was present with him during the trials and events that happened. Pharez and Zerah: These are her husband and brother. They were both involved in the conflict with King David. So, what does this tell us? This verse is a little unusual because it highlights Tamar's significant role in the history of Judah. It shows that even though she wasn’t given a large inheritance, she was present during important events and relationships. It suggests a complex situation where a woman’s influence could be powerful, even when not formally recognized or rewarded. The Big Picture: This verse is part of a larger story about the early years of Israel and the importance of understanding how people were connected to their heritage and history. It’s a reminder that even seemingly ordinary individuals can have significant impact in times of conflict and challenge. --- Do you want me to explain why this verse is significant, or perhaps explore a specific aspect of it further? For example, would you like to know: More about Tamar's story and its significance? How this verse relates to the concept of “the whole house of Israel” (which also appears in 1 Chronicles)?