Zerah
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Zerah in the Bible?
The name Zerah identifies multiple individuals in the Hebrew Bible, including the twin son of Judah and Tamar, an Edomite tribal leader, a Levite, and a Cushite king who fought against Judah.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding these distinct figures clarifies the complex genealogical lines of Judah and the political conflicts involving neighboring kingdoms during the period of the Israelite monarchy.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Zerah reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Zerah in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zerah clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Zerah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/zerah/