Genesis 38

This chapter temporarily shifts the focus from Joseph to the story of Judah, one of the brothers who betrayed Joseph. Judah marries a Canaanite woman and has three sons. After his first two sons die, Judah fails to provide his daughter-in-law, Tamar, with his third son. Tamar disguises herself as a shrine prostitute and seduces Judah, becoming pregnant by him to ensure the continuation of her line. When Judah attempts to punish her, she reveals his signet ring and staff. Judah admits her righteousness, and she bears the twins Perez and Zerah (Perez is in the lineage of Christ).