Genesis 38:8 Meaning and Explanation
“And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Judah commands Onan to marry Tamar to raise seed for Er.
The Context of Genesis 38:8
Judah invokes the duty of levirate marriage, requiring his second son to father a child in his deceased brother's name.
What Does Genesis 38:8 Mean?
Following the custom of levirate marriage, Judah commands Onan to go in unto Tamar and raise seed—that is, to father a child in Er's name so that Er's line will continue. This obligation falls upon Onan as the next brother.
The duty is clear: Onan must take Tamar as wife and father a child whose inheritance and identity would belong to his deceased brother. This custom preserves the family line and protects the widow's standing within the household.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 38:8
What does Genesis 38:8 mean?
Judah commands Onan to marry Tamar to raise seed for Er.
What is the context of Genesis 38:8?
Judah invokes the duty of levirate marriage, requiring his second son to father a child in his deceased brother's name.