And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother’s wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother. Judah told his son Onan to fulfill his duty as his brother’s next of kin and produce children with his widow in order to carry on his brother’s line. This was a common practice in ancient times to ensure the continuation of a family line and inheritance. However, Onan did not want to have children that would not be his own heirs, so he intentionally spilled his seed on the ground instead of impregnating his brother’s widow. This act displeased the Lord, who saw it as a selfish and dishonorable betrayal of his duty. As a result, Onan was struck down and died, leaving his widow childless and unable to continue his brother’s line. Judah’s sons’ actions and their consequences serve as a warning to others about the importance of fulfilling one’s responsibilities and obligations, especially when it comes to family and legacy.
Image by Ai Junkie
