Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 38:10 mean when it says 'the thing which he did displeased the Lord'?
A: This verse refers to Onan, son of Judah, who refused to fulfill the mitzvah of yibum (levirate marriage) with Tamar. According to Rashi and the Talmud (Yevamot 34b), his action of 'spilling his seed' was considered wicked because he selfishly avoided continuing his brother's lineage.
Q: Why was Onan punished so severely in Genesis 38:10?
A: The Rambam explains in Mishneh Torah (Ishut 15:7) that Onan's sin was particularly severe because he violated both the positive commandment of yibum and committed a form of destruction (hashchata) by preventing potential life. The Talmud (Niddah 13a) also teaches that this act is among the serious transgressions.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 38:10 today?
A: This verse teaches the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities to others, especially family obligations. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 85:6) emphasizes that Onan's selfishness and refusal to build his brother's house led to his downfall, showing how seriously Judaism views family continuity and mutual responsibility.
Q: Does Genesis 38:10 mean that G-d directly punishes people for their sins?
A: Yes, according to traditional Jewish thought as explained by Rashi and Ramban, this is an example of middah k'neged middah (measure for measure) - just as Onan prevented life, his own life was taken. However, the Talmud (Berachot 7a) teaches that G-d's judgments are complex and we cannot always understand His ways.
Q: How does the Jewish tradition interpret the phrase 'He slew him also' in Genesis 38:10?
A: The word 'also' (gam) refers back to the death of Onan's brother Er (mentioned in verse 7). Ibn Ezra explains this shows both brothers died for similar sins of preventing procreation. The Talmud (Yevamot 34b) notes this teaches that both brothers were guilty of the same type of transgression against the mitzvah of yibum.
Context of the Verse
The verse appears in Bereishit (Genesis) 38:10, referring to the death of Onan, the son of Yehuda (Judah). The Torah recounts that Onan engaged in an act that displeased Hashem, leading to his death. This follows the earlier death of his brother, Er, who was also struck down by Hashem for his wrongdoing.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) explains that Onan's sin was his refusal to fulfill the mitzvah of yibbum (levirate marriage) in its proper spirit. Though he married Tamar, his brother's widow, he intentionally avoided conception, "spilling his seed" (hashchatat zera). This act was considered a grievous sin because it defied the purpose of yibbum, which was to perpetuate his brother's name.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) discusses this incident in Hilchot Ishut (Laws of Marriage), emphasizing that Onan's transgression was not merely a personal failing but a violation of a Torah obligation. The mitzvah of yibbum carries deep moral and familial responsibilities, and Onan's deliberate evasion of this duty warranted divine punishment.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 85:5) elaborates that Onan's act was particularly egregious because it demonstrated selfishness and a lack of compassion for his deceased brother's legacy. The Midrash contrasts this with the ideal of chesed (kindness) expected in familial relationships.
Halachic Implications
Moral Lesson
Beyond the legal dimension, the verse teaches the importance of fulfilling responsibilities with sincerity. Onan's external compliance with yibbum was meaningless without genuine intent, highlighting the Torah's emphasis on both action and proper motivation (kavanah).