Genesis 38:10

What he did was wicked in the sight of the LORD, so He put Onan to death as well.

Study Bible

What he did
This phrase refers to the actions of Onan, which were not merely personal choices but acts with significant moral and spiritual implications. In the Hebrew context, the verb "did" (עָשָׂה, 'asah) often implies not just the act itself but the intention and heart behind it. Onan's actions were a direct violation of the levirate marriage duty, which was a sacred obligation to preserve a brother's lineage. This highlights the importance of obedience and the heart's intention in fulfilling God's commands.

was wicked
The term "wicked" (רַע, ra) in Hebrew conveys a sense of evil or moral corruption. It is not just about breaking a rule but acting in a way that is fundamentally opposed to God's nature and order. In the conservative Christian perspective, wickedness is seen as a rebellion against God's holiness and righteousness. Onan's wickedness was not just in his actions but in his deliberate choice to thwart God's plan for family and inheritance.

in the sight of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes God's omniscience and His moral authority. The Hebrew word for "sight" (עֵינַיִם, 'ayin) literally means "eyes," suggesting that nothing is hidden from God. In the conservative Christian view, this underscores the belief that God sees and judges the heart and actions of every individual. Onan's sin was not just against his family but was an affront to God Himself, who sees all and judges righteously.

so He put Onan to death
The direct action of God in this phrase highlights His sovereignty and justice. The Hebrew verb "put to death" (מוּת, muth) indicates a divine judgment. In the conservative Christian tradition, this serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine retribution. God's judgment on Onan was not arbitrary but a just response to his deliberate disobedience and wickedness.

as well
This phrase connects Onan's fate to that of his brother Er, who was also put to death for his wickedness. The repetition of divine judgment within the same family serves as a powerful warning about the consequences of sin. In the conservative Christian perspective, it underscores the importance of living in obedience to God's commands and the generational impact of sin and disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Onan
The second son of Judah, who was instructed to perform the duty of a brother-in-law to Tamar, his deceased brother's wife, by providing offspring for his brother.

2. Judah
The father of Onan, a patriarch of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, who plays a significant role in the account of Genesis 38.

3. Tamar
The widow of Er, Onan's brother, who was to be given offspring through Onan according to the custom of levirate marriage.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who judges Onan's actions as wicked.

5. Levirate Marriage
A cultural practice in ancient Israel where a man was required to marry his deceased brother's widow to produce offspring in his brother's name.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Onan's actions were not just a personal failure but a direct disobedience to God's covenantal expectations. This reminds us of the gravity of sin and its consequences.

God's Justice
The swift judgment on Onan underscores God's commitment to justice and righteousness. It serves as a reminder that God sees and judges the intentions of the heart.

Faithfulness to Duty
Onan's refusal to fulfill his duty to Tamar highlights the importance of faithfulness and integrity in our responsibilities, especially those that impact others.

The Role of Intentions
Onan's actions were judged not just by what he did, but by the intentions behind them. This teaches us to examine our motives in our actions.

God's Sovereign Plan
Despite human failure, God's purposes prevail. Tamar's inclusion in the lineage of Christ shows God's ability to work through imperfect situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Onan's account teach us about the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities, especially in family and community contexts?

2. How does the concept of levirate marriage in Genesis 38 relate to the broader biblical theme of redemption and restoration?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our intentions align with our actions, and why is this important in our walk with God?

4. How does the account of Onan and Tamar challenge us to consider the consequences of our actions and the seriousness of sin?

5. Reflect on a time when you saw God's justice or mercy in a situation. How does this account of Onan help you understand God's character better?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
This passage outlines the law of levirate marriage, which provides context for Onan's obligation to Tamar.

Matthew 1:3
This genealogy of Jesus includes Tamar, highlighting her significance in the lineage of Christ despite the events of Genesis 38.

Romans 6:23
This verse speaks to the consequences of sin, which is relevant to understanding the judgment that fell upon Onan.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10
This passage lists behaviors that are considered unrighteous, providing a broader biblical context for understanding what is deemed wicked in God's sight.