“The sons of Judah were Er and Onan: and Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan.”
Context: The Book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Old Testament and recounts the events of the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. The verse you mentioned is part of a census taken by Moses and Eleazar, the priest, to count the men of Israel for military purposes.
The sons of Judah: Judah was one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel) and a prominent tribe in Israel. The verse specifically mentions two of Judah’s sons, Er and Onan.
Er and Onan: Er was Judah’s firstborn son, and Onan was his second son. These sons are mentioned earlier in the book of Genesis (Genesis 38:1-10). Er married a woman named Tamar, but he was wicked in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord took his life (Genesis 38:7).
Onan’s role: According to the Levirate marriage custom of that time, Onan was expected to marry his deceased brother’s widow, Tamar, to raise up offspring for his brother. However, Onan chose to practice coitus interruptus, intentionally preventing conception during the sexual act (Genesis 38:9). This act displeased God, and He also took Onan’s life (Genesis 38:10).
Lessons and Applications: The story of Er and Onan serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and selfishness. Er’s wickedness and Onan’s refusal to fulfill his responsibilities led to their deaths. This account highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God’s commandments.
Family lineage: Despite the tragic fate of Er and Onan, the line of Judah continued through their brother, Shelah, who later had a son named Perez. Perez became an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:3).
God’s sovereignty: It is important to note that God, as the giver and sustainer of life, has the authority to determine life and death. In the case of Er and Onan, God chose to intervene, but His purposes are not always fully revealed to us.
This brief Bible study explores the historical context and significance of Numbers 26:19, shedding light on the events surrounding the sons of Judah. It reminds us of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God’s commands and highlights God’s sovereignty in the lives of His people.
