Θάμαρ

Tamar

Definition

Θάμαρ (Tamar) is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name תָּמָר, meaning 'palm tree.' In the New Testament, it refers exclusively to the Tamar of Genesis 38, the daughter-in-law of Judah who, after being wronged, secured her rights and lineage by posing as a prostitute. She bore Judah the twins Perez and Zerah, becoming an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ. This single reference in Matthew 1:3 places her within the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her inclusion despite her culturally scandalous story.

Biblical Usage

Θάμαρ is used only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 1:3, within the genealogy of Jesus: 'Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar.' Its usage is strictly as a proper noun, identifying a specific ancestral figure from the Old Testament. The context is genealogical, serving to connect Jesus' lineage back to the patriarchs and to intentionally include women with complex histories.

Etymology

The word is a direct transliteration into Greek (Θάμαρ) from the Hebrew name תָּמָר (Tāmār), which means 'palm tree.' It is not derived from a Greek root but is a borrowed name, carried over phonetically from the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) where it is used for the same biblical figure.

Semantic Range

Tamar's inclusion in Matthew's genealogy (Matthew 1:3) is theologically significant. It demonstrates God's grace and the unexpected means through which He fulfills His covenant promises. Her story, involving deception and sexual scandal (Genesis 38), underscores that Jesus' lineage includes flawed individuals redeemed by God's purpose. It highlights themes of justice, providence, and the breaking of cultural barriers, showing that God's plan for salvation encompasses all people.

In the original cultural setting, Tamar's actions in Genesis 38 were a desperate measure to secure the levirate rights and protection owed to her as a widow within Judah's family. Her inclusion in a formal Jewish genealogy would have been startling, as such lists typically highlighted male lineage. Matthew's intentional mention of her (and other women) challenged cultural norms and emphasized that membership in God's family is based on faith and God's orchestration, not social propriety.

There are no direct synonyms, as it is a proper name. Related are other ancestral women in Matthew's genealogy: Ῥαχάβ (Rachab, G4477) — Rahab; Ῥούθ (Routh, G4503) — Ruth; Βηθσαβέε (Bēthsabee, G945) — Bathsheba.

Word Details

Scripture References