Genesis 38:29 Meaning and Explanation
“And it came to pass, as he drew back his hand, that, behold, his brother came out: and she said, How hast thou broken forth? this breach be upon thee: therefore his name was called Pharez.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The first child withdraws his hand, and his brother emerges instead; he is named Pharez.
The Context of Genesis 38:29
The firstborn son unexpectedly yields his position to his twin, resulting in the younger twin becoming the actual firstborn in birth order.
What Does Genesis 38:29 Mean?
Surprisingly, the twin with the scarlet thread withdraws his hand, and his brother emerges from the womb first. The midwife remarks on the breach—the breaking forth of order—as the second twin precedes the first.
The boy who emerges first is named Pharez, meaning "a breach" or "he who breaks through," commemorating the unusual reversal of expected birth order. The name reflects both the physical breach and the breaking of ordinary patterns, marking him as one destined for significance despite being second in the womb.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 38:29
What does Genesis 38:29 mean?
The first child withdraws his hand, and his brother emerges instead; he is named Pharez.
What is the context of Genesis 38:29?
The firstborn son unexpectedly yields his position to his twin, resulting in the younger twin becoming the actual firstborn in birth order.