TAMAR: THE WRONG CHOICE
- Meredith Lee Harris
- May 30, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 17
Tamar’s story is a striking example of how God’s grace can redeem even the most complex and scandalous situations. Her journey, told in Genesis 38, reveals a woman who faced betrayal, injustice, and shame, yet emerged as a key figure in God’s redemptive plan. Through Tamar’s life, we are reminded that God specializes in using the broken and overlooked to accomplish His divine purposes.
A Victim of Betrayal
Tamar’s life was marred by betrayal from the very people who should have protected her. Married to Judah’s eldest son, Er, she was left a widow when he died prematurely due to his wickedness. According to cultural custom, Tamar was then married to Er’s brother, Onan, who was tasked with producing an heir for her late husband. However, Onan refused to fulfill his duty, exploiting Tamar without honoring her, and God struck him down for his wickedness.
With two husbands dead, Judah, her father-in-law, feared giving his youngest son, Shelah, to Tamar, blaming her instead of recognizing his own sons’ sinfulness. Judah promised to marry her to Shelah when he came of age but never followed through, leaving Tamar abandoned and disgraced.
A Bold Move for Justice
Tamar’s situation seemed hopeless, yet her bold actions show her determination to seek justice and restoration. When she realized Judah would not honor his promise, she disguised herself as a prostitute and intercepted him on the road. Judah, unaware of her identity, slept with her and gave her his staff, seal, and cord as collateral for payment. Tamar became pregnant, and when Judah later condemned her for immorality, she revealed the evidence that he was the father of her child.
Judah’s response is significant. Confronted with his hypocrisy, he admitted, “She is more righteous than I, since I wouldn’t give her to my son Shelah” (Genesis 38:26). Tamar’s boldness exposed Judah’s sin and forced him to confront his failure to uphold justice.
God’s Redemption Through Tamar
Despite the scandal surrounding her story, Tamar’s actions secured her place in God’s redemptive plan. She gave birth to twins, Perez and Zerah, and through Perez’s lineage came King David—and ultimately, Jesus Christ. Tamar, once a widow without hope, became an integral part of the Messiah’s genealogy.
Tamar’s story underscores that God is not limited by human failures or societal judgments. Her boldness and perseverance in the face of injustice reveal her faith that God could bring restoration out of brokenness.
Lessons From Tamar’s Story
Tamar’s life challenges us to trust that God can redeem even the most shameful or unjust situations. Her story reminds us that our past does not disqualify us from being used by God. Instead, He weaves our failures, pain, and brokenness into His divine purpose.
If you’ve ever felt betrayed, abandoned, or overlooked, Tamar’s story is proof that God sees you, values you, and can use your circumstances to bring about something extraordinary.
Application Questions:
How does Tamar’s story challenge your understanding of God’s justice and grace?
Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God to bring redemption out of brokenness?
What steps can you take today to boldly seek justice and restoration, trusting that God is at work?
