Genesis 38:30

30 And after this came forth his brother, on whose hand was the scarlet thread; and she called his name, Zara.

Genesis 38:30 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 38:30

And afterward came out his brother that had the scarlet
thread upon his hand
By which it was known that he so far came out first; which confirms the remarkable birth of his brother, who notwithstanding got the start of him: and his name was called Zarah;
not from "rising", or his coming forth like the rising sun, as is usually observed; but rather from his return, or drawing back his hand, and as it were returning to his mother's womb; and so, according to Hillerus ^F12, Zarah, by a transposition of letters, comes from (rzx) "Chazar", to return: but Jarchi thinks he had his name from the refulgent appearance of the scarlet thread on his wrist.

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FOOTNOTES:

F12 Onomastic. Sacr. p. 372.

Genesis 38:30 In-Context

28 And it came to pass as she was bringing forth, one thrust forth his hand, and the midwife having taken hold of it, bound upon hid hand a scarlet , saying, This one shall come out first.

29 And when he drew back his hand, then immediately came forth his brother; and she said, Why has the barrier been cut through because of thee? and she called his name, Phares.

30 And after this came forth his brother, on whose hand was the scarlet thread; and she called his name, Zara.