Story of Judah and Tamar: Birthright in Scripture

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The Story of Judah and Tamar in Genesis 38 is a familiar one in the Christian Bible. Nevertheless, it is also a controversial chapter in biblical scholarship due to an apparently dissonant narrative. In fact most expositions of the Book of Genesis do not waste much ink on this story. There are prominent theologians who insist that this episode plays no role whatsoever in Genesis and that it should not even be inserted into the divine record. However, what is included by the Holy Spirit is not so easily dismissed by the doubts or cleverness of men. It is the conviction of this author that the Story of Judah and Tamar properly understood models a reading of Scripture that is consonant with what the church fathers have termed ‘regula fidei’ or ‘rule of faith’. Such an interpretation upholds a reading tradition pioneered by Jesus, the apostles and the church fathers. When seen through this canonical prism - rather than invoking skepticism - this brief but significant account in the divine record should alert Christians to a deep mystery in the divine revelation concerning God’s identity, His move, and His abiding relevance for present day Christian life, living and experience.