Genesis 38:30

Authorized King James Version

And afterward came out his brother, that had the scarlet thread upon his hand: and his name was called Zarah.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאַחַר֙

H310

And afterward

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

יָצָ֣א

H3318

came out

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

אָחִ֔יו

H251

his brother

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

אֲשֶׁ֥ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

יָד֖וֹ

H3027

upon his hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

הַשָּׁנִ֑י

H8144

that had the scarlet thread

crimson, properly, the insect or its color, also stuff dyed with it

וַיִּקְרָ֥א

H7121

was called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

שְׁמ֖וֹ

H8034

and his name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

#10

זָֽרַח׃

H2226

Zarah

zerach, the name of three israelites, also of an idumaean and an ethiopian prince

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 38 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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