Genesis 38:10 Meaning and Explanation
“And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Lord is displeased with Onan's action and slays him.
The Context of Genesis 38:10
Onan's defiance of duty—his choice to deprive his brother's widow of her rightful claim—provokes divine judgment.
What Does Genesis 38:10 Mean?
The text states plainly that "the thing which he did displeased the LORD." Onan's deliberate evasion of his obligation is not merely a personal matter but a violation recognized by God himself.
The Lord's judgment falls swiftly: Onan is slain, just as Er was before him. Two sons are now dead, and Tamar remains childless and unprotected. The pattern of divine judgment makes clear that evasion of covenant duty carries grave consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 38:10
What does Genesis 38:10 mean?
The Lord is displeased with Onan's action and slays him.
What is the context of Genesis 38:10?
Onan's defiance of duty—his choice to deprive his brother's widow of her rightful claim—provokes divine judgment.