JUDAH, SON OF JACOB
JUDAH, SON OF JACOB
Fourth son of Jacob, Judah soon established himself in the family as one who had genuine leadership qualities (Gen 29:31-35; Gen 37:25-27; Gen 43:1-10; Gen 44:14-34; Gen 46:28). Concerning his own sons he wanted to establish a strong family to carry on his name and inheritance (Gen 38:1-10). He himself, however, proved to be morally weak and an easy victim of sexual temptation (Gen 38:11-30).
Jacob saw clearly that Judahs tribe would become the leading tribe in the Israelite nation. It would conquer foreign enemies and rule over its brother tribes (Gen 49:8-12). Out of it came the great king David and finally the Messiah Jesus (Mat 1:3; Mat 1:6; Mat 1:16). (See also JUDAH, TRIBE AND KINGDOM.)