Genesis 38:29

But when he pulled his hand back and his brother came out, she said, "You have broken out first!" So he was named Perez.

Study Bible

But as he was drawing back his hand
The phrase "drawing back his hand" refers to the unusual birth of the twins, where the firstborn, Zerah, initially extended his hand out of the womb. The Hebrew word for "drawing back" is "שָׁב" (shav), which can mean to return or withdraw. This action symbolizes a reversal or change in the expected order, which is a recurring theme in the Bible, where God's plans often defy human expectations. The act of drawing back signifies a divine intervention that alters the natural course, reminding us of God's sovereignty over life and destiny.

his brother came out
The emergence of Perez, the second twin, is significant. The Hebrew word for "came out" is "יָצָא" (yatsa), meaning to go forth or come out. This word is often used in the context of deliverance or emergence into a new state. Perez's unexpected birth ahead of his brother symbolizes breakthrough and the fulfillment of God's purposes, even when circumstances seem contrary. It highlights the theme of God's providence and the idea that His plans are not bound by human conventions or expectations.

and she said, 'So this is how you have broken out!'
The exclamation "So this is how you have broken out!" reflects the surprise and acknowledgment of the unexpected turn of events. The Hebrew root for "broken out" is "פָּרַץ" (parats), which means to breach or burst forth. This word conveys a sense of forceful emergence and overcoming barriers. It is a powerful image of triumph and breakthrough, suggesting that God's purposes will prevail despite obstacles. This phrase serves as a reminder of the divine ability to bring forth new beginnings and breakthroughs in our lives.

And he was named Perez
The name "Perez" is derived from the Hebrew root "פָּרַץ" (parats), meaning to break through or burst forth. Naming in the Bible often carries prophetic significance, and Perez's name reflects his role in the lineage of Jesus Christ, as he is an ancestor of King David and ultimately, the Messiah. This highlights the theme of redemption and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through seemingly ordinary and flawed human circumstances. Perez's birth and name serve as a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to bring about His purposes through unexpected means.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Perez
The son of Tamar and Judah, whose name means "breach" or "breakthrough" in Hebrew. His birth is significant in the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ.

2. Tamar
The mother of Perez, who was initially Judah's daughter-in-law. Her account is one of perseverance and righteousness despite challenging circumstances.

3. Judah
One of the twelve sons of Jacob, whose lineage is crucial in the biblical account, leading to the tribe of Judah and the Davidic line.

4. Zerah
The twin brother of Perez, who initially appeared to be the firstborn but was overtaken by Perez during birth.

5. Birth Event
The unusual birth of Perez and Zerah, where Perez unexpectedly becomes the firstborn, symbolizing a divine intervention and reversal of expectations.

Teaching Points

Divine Reversals
God's plans often defy human expectations. Perez's unexpected birth order reminds us that God can bring about His purposes in surprising ways.

Lineage of Grace
Despite the flawed circumstances surrounding Perez's birth, God uses imperfect people to fulfill His perfect plan, as seen in the lineage of Christ.

Perseverance in Faith
Tamar's account encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, trusting that God can redeem difficult situations for His glory.

God's Sovereignty
The birth of Perez illustrates God's sovereign control over history and His ability to orchestrate events for His divine purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Perez's birth challenge our understanding of God's sovereignty and His ability to work through unexpected circumstances?

2. In what ways does the inclusion of Perez in the genealogy of Jesus Christ demonstrate God's grace and redemption?

3. How can Tamar's perseverance and faith in difficult circumstances inspire us in our own faith journeys?

4. What lessons can we learn from the reversal of expectations in Perez's birth about trusting God's timing and plans?

5. How does the account of Perez and Zerah connect to the broader account of God's redemptive plan throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ruth 4:18-22
This genealogy connects Perez to King David, highlighting the importance of Perez's birth in the messianic lineage.

Matthew 1:3
The genealogy of Jesus Christ includes Perez, underscoring the fulfillment of God's promises through unexpected means.

1 Chronicles 2:4
Chronicles the descendants of Judah, emphasizing the significance of Perez in the tribe of Judah.