E

Er

Er in the Bible — firstborn son of Judah (GEN 38:3). Er belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 5 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “watchman”

Profile

Gender
male
Tribe
Judah
Scripture References
5 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
4 connections

Biography

Er was a male member of the tribe of Judah, distinguished as the firstborn son of Judah. His role is primarily noted in the context of his family lineage within the tribe of Judah. No additional personal notes are recorded about him beyond his position as Judah's eldest son.

Names & Titles

The name Er means 'watchful' or 'watcher' in Hebrew, reflecting a proper name given in the biblical text. There is no indication that this name was given by God, but it carries a meaning that may imply vigilance or attentiveness.

Family

Er was the son of Judah and the husband of Tamar, as inferred from the biblical record. He is also noted as the father of Bath-shua. His death was caused by the Lord, indicating a significant divine action in his life.

Significance

Er's significance in Scripture lies in his position as Judah's firstborn and his role in the family narrative involving Tamar. His death by divine intervention highlights God's sovereign judgment within the lineage of Judah. This event sets the stage for subsequent developments in the tribe of Judah's genealogy.

Names & Labels (1)

Erproper name
Hebrew
עֵֽר
Transliteration
er
Meaning
watchful, watcher
Greek
Ηρ
Reference
GEN 38:3
Strong's
H6147

Family & Relationships (4)

son

Judah(GEN 38:3)
Bath-shua(1CH 2:3)

husband

Tamar(GEN 38:6)

killed by

YHVH(GEN 38:7)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Er in the Bible?

Er was a male member of the tribe of Judah, distinguished as the firstborn son of Judah. His role is primarily noted in the context of his family lineage within the tribe of Judah. No additional personal notes are recorded about him beyond his position as Judah's eldest son.

What does the name Er mean?

The name Er means “watchman” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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