Character Study Of Tamar Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF TAMAR – RIGHTEOUS WOMAN WHO SECURED HER LINEAGE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 38:26

"And Judah acknowledged them, and said, She hath been more righteous than I; because that I gave her not to Shelah my son. And he knew her again no more."

Supporting Texts:

Matthew 1:3, Ruth 4:12, Hosea 10:12, Psalm 37:6, Hebrews 11:6

INTRODUCTION:

Tamar was a woman whose story is found in Genesis 38. She was the daughter-in-law of Judah, the son of Jacob. Despite facing injustice and betrayal, Tamar acted decisively to secure her rightful place in the lineage of Israel. Her actions ensured that the Messianic line would continue, as she became an ancestor of King David and Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:3).

Tamar’s story is one of perseverance, wisdom, and divine justice. Though her method was unconventional, her righteousness was acknowledged by Judah himself. Her life teaches us about God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises despite human failures.

1. TAMAR’S MARRIAGE AND BETRAYAL

a) Tamar was married to Er, Judah’s firstborn (Genesis 38:6)

Tamar was chosen as a wife for Er, but he was wicked and died under God’s judgment.

b) Onan refused to fulfil his duty (Genesis 38:8-10)

By custom, Onan was to provide an heir for his late brother, but he deliberately refused, and God punished him.

c) Judah failed to keep his promise (Genesis 38:11)

Judah promised Tamar that she would marry his youngest son, Shelah, but he did not keep his word.

d) Tamar was left as a widow without justice (Genesis 38:14)

She waited for years, yet Judah did not fulfil his duty toward her.

e) Biblical Example: Like Tamar, Hannah also faced hardship but trusted in God's justice (1 Samuel 1:10-11).

2. TAMAR’S WISE ACTION TO SECURE HER DESTINY

a) She realised Judah’s deception (Genesis 38:12-14)

When she saw that Shelah was grown and she had not been given to him, she took action.

b) She disguised herself to test Judah (Genesis 38:15-16)

Tamar veiled herself and positioned herself where Judah would pass by.

c) Judah unknowingly fathered her child (Genesis 38:17-18)

Judah gave her his signet, bracelet, and staff as a pledge, not knowing who she was.

d) Her wisdom was later revealed as righteousness (Genesis 38:26)

When Judah discovered the truth, he acknowledged that she had acted more righteously than him.

e) Biblical Example: Rahab also acted wisely to secure her place in God's plan (Joshua 2:9-13).

3. GOD’S JUSTIFICATION AND TAMAR’S HONOUR

a) Judah confessed his wrong (Genesis 38:26)

He admitted that Tamar was more righteous because he had failed in his duty.

b) Tamar bore twin sons, Perez and Zerah (Genesis 38:27-30)

Her children became part of the royal lineage of David and Jesus Christ.

c) She was included in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:3)

Despite her difficult circumstances, God honoured her in history.

d) God turns injustice into testimony (Psalm 37:6)

He vindicates those who trust in Him.

e) Biblical Example: Joseph was also falsely accused but later exalted (Genesis 41:39-41).

4. LESSONS FROM TAMAR’S LIFE

a) God fights for the oppressed (Psalm 103:6)

Tamar was mistreated, but God ensured justice for her.

b) Wisdom is necessary in difficult situations (Proverbs 4:7)

Tamar’s wisdom helped her overcome injustice.

c) God can use any situation for His glory (Romans 8:28)

Even a seemingly shameful situation became part of God’s redemptive plan.

d) Faith requires action (Hebrews 11:6)

Tamar did not sit idly in her situation; she took bold action.

e) Biblical Example: The persistent widow also sought justice until she received it (Luke 18:1-8).

CONCLUSION:

Tamar’s story teaches us that God’s justice prevails over human failures. Though she was wronged, God turned her situation around, making her an important link in the lineage of Christ. Her faith and courage ensured that she played a vital role in God’s redemptive plan.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, fight for me in every unjust situation.

2. Father, give me the wisdom to navigate challenges in life.

3. Every delay in my destiny, be broken in Jesus' name.

4. Lord, let my life be a testimony of Your justice and favour.

5. Father, use my story for Your glory, no matter my circumstances.