The Bible — notes and cross-references in Genesis | Interpretation and commentary to chapter 38

38:2^a Shua

1 Chron. 2:3
38:3^a Er

Gen. 46:12; Num. 26:19
38:5¹ she

Following the Septuagint; the Hebrew text reads, he was.
38:6¹ Tamar

For vv. 6-30, see Matt. 1:3 and notes.
38:7^a wicked

1 Chron. 2:3
38:8^a wife

Deut. 25:5-6; Matt. 22:24; Mark 12:19; Luke 20:28
38:11¹ thought

Lit., said.
38:14^a Shelah

Gen. 38:26
38:15¹ Judah

Judah behaved in a blind way, indulging in his lust in darkness. In contrast, Joseph, living as a star of light (see note Gen. 37:5^1a), overcame his lust (Gen. 39:7-12).
38:18^a seal

Gen. 38:25
38:25^a seal

Gen. 38:18
38:26^a Shelah

Gen. 38:14
38:29^1a Perez

Gen. 46:12; Num. 26:20; 1 Chron. 2:4; Matt. 1:3

Meaning a breach.
38:30¹ Zerah

Meaning a dawning, or a shining.