Who Was Onan in the Bible?
Man Living at the Time of Egypt and Wilderness
Onan, a man of the tribe of Judah, is a figure mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 38. He was the son of Judah and Bath-shua, and his brothers were Er and Shelah. Onan’s story is primarily recorded in Genesis 38:4-10, where his actions and their consequences are detailed.
Genesis 38:4-5 (ESV)
“She conceived again and bore a son, and she called his name Onan. Yet again she bore a son, and she called his name Shelah. Judah was in Chezib when she bore him.”
Onan’s Actions and Their Consequences
The most significant aspect of Onan’s story revolves around the ancient practice of levirate marriage. After his older brother Er died, Onan was expected to marry Er’s widow, Tamar, to produce offspring in Er’s name. This practice was essential for preserving the deceased brother’s lineage and ensuring the inheritance of his property.
Genesis 38:8 (ESV)
“Then Judah said to Onan, ‘Go in to your brother’s wife and perform the duty of a brother-in-law to her, and raise up offspring for your brother.'”
However, Onan acted selfishly. Rather than fulfilling his duty, he practiced coitus interruptus, spilling his semen on the ground to prevent Tamar from conceiving. This act was seen as a direct disobedience to his familial and cultural responsibilities.
Genesis 38:9 (ESV)
“But Onan knew that the offspring would not be his. So whenever he went in to his brother’s wife he would waste the semen on the ground, so as not to give offspring to his brother.”
Onan’s actions displeased the Lord, and as a result, God struck him dead. This severe consequence underscored the gravity of his disobedience.
Genesis 38:10 (ESV)
“And what he did was wicked in the sight of the Lord, and he put him to death also.”
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Obedience to God
Onan’s story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of obedience to God’s commands. His refusal to fulfill his duty, driven by selfish motives, led to severe punishment. Modern Christians can learn from Onan’s example that disobedience, especially when it stems from selfishness, can have dire consequences.
1 Samuel 15:22 (ESV)
“And Samuel said, ‘Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.'”
The Consequences of Selfishness
Onan’s act was not just disobedient but selfish. He chose his own convenience over the well-being of his family and the continuation of his brother’s lineage. This story highlights the destructive nature of selfishness and the importance of putting others’ needs and God’s commands above our own desires.
Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Justice and Mercy
Onan’s story, though it highlights God’s justice, also points to God’s desire for order and righteousness among His people. God’s actions against Onan were a response to his blatant disregard for his duty and the well-being of his family, emphasizing the seriousness of maintaining justice and fulfilling one’s responsibilities.
Micah 6:8 (ESV)
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
The Role of Discipline
God’s discipline of Onan serves as a reminder of His love for His people. Discipline, while it may seem harsh, is intended to correct and guide believers back to a path of righteousness. It is an expression of God’s love and commitment to the spiritual well-being of His children.
Hebrews 12:6 (ESV)
“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
Fulfillment of the Law
The practice of levirate marriage, which Onan failed to honor, finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Onan’s disobedience led to death, Christ’s perfect obedience to God’s will brings life to all who believe in Him. Jesus perfectly fulfilled the Law, including its spirit and intent, providing a way for all to be reconciled to God.
Matthew 5:17 (ESV)
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
The Ultimate Sacrifice
Onan’s refusal to provide offspring contrasts sharply with Jesus’ willing sacrifice to bring many sons and daughters to glory. Jesus’ selflessness and obedience to the Father stand as the ultimate example for believers, highlighting the contrast between Onan’s selfishness and Christ’s sacrificial love.
Hebrews 2:10 (ESV)
“For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.”
Conclusion
Onan, a man of the tribe of Judah, is remembered for his disobedience and selfishness, which led to severe consequences. His story, recorded in Genesis 38, serves as a cautionary tale for modern Christians about the importance of obedience to God’s commands, the dangers of selfishness, and the need for fulfilling one’s responsibilities. Through Onan’s narrative, believers are reminded of God’s justice, the role of discipline, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s laws in Jesus Christ. By reflecting on these lessons, Christians are encouraged to live lives of obedience, selflessness, and faithfulness to God’s will, drawing closer to Him and embracing the redemption offered through Christ.
References:
– Genesis 38:4-10
– 1 Chronicles 2:3