The sonnes of Iudah, were Er and Onan: and Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan. Numbers 26:19 (KJV)
The sons of Judah
were Er and Onan: and Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan. Numbers 26:19 (KJV)
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. Judah was one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel) and a prominent tribe in Israel. The verse lists five sons of Judah: Er, Onan, Shelah, Pharez, and Zarah, while another reading mentions Er, Onan, and Shelah. 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). Both Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan due to their wickedness (Genesis 38:7-10). 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). Family lineage: Despite the tragic fate of Er and Onan, the line of Judah continued through Shelah and through Perez, who was born to Judah and Tamar (Genesis 38:29-30). 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.
