Judah and Tamar Joseph Interuptus

OBSERVATIONS: * Why does the Joseph story get interrupted? * Story is under told. * Judah marries Canaanite * Wife is not identified by name * 3 sons Er- watchful or childless Onan- vigorous Shelah- to be at ease

Er is first individual God kills Levirate (Latin for brother in law)- Deut. 25: 5-10 Judah never addresses Tamar by name Onan is a poser. Judah fearing the loss of third son and being with out his own heir sends Tamar back to her father with the promise of Shelah when he is old enough to be fertile. Tamar quietly obeys Judah’s wife dies, he grieves.

Sheep shearers convention, think Kentucky derby Tamar knows Judah is now a widow, she also knows that Shelah is no longer a youth. Tamar’s veil Tamar takes advantage of Judah for a noble purpose Esther and King Ahasuerus; Naomi and Boaz Judah seeks to save face Tamar is pregnant Judah is indignant- burn her!

Judah, I think is trying to protect Shelah Tamar’s timing is perfect! Judah owns his sin and vindicates Tamar Tamar has twins Zerah- scarlet Perez- he who pushes thru a wall.

Nuggets: Judah surrenders his symbols of authority to Tamar and a son who would produce Israel’s greatest king and the King of Kings Tamar’s actions prevent Judah’s shame Talmud observed Tamar’s actions as redemptive Women are marginalized in the story by men, but recognized by God. If the focus of the story is on our actions rather than God’s it’s ugly. Judah’s ownership is immense. Pivotal spiritual awakening, (Gen. 44)

Imitation into humility This is a grand picture of grace, the unfailing love of God and His merciful heart.