Oxon

Onan

Name	Onan
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Known for	Biblical figure
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Onan is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 38. He is the second son of Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, and his wife Shua. Onan is most notably known for his role in the narrative concerning the practice of levirate marriage, which is a form of marriage in which the brother of a deceased man is obliged to marry his brother's widow.

Biblical Narrative

In the Book of Genesis, Onan's story is recounted in Genesis 38:1-10. After Onan's older brother, Er, is killed by God for his wickedness, Judah instructs Onan to perform his duty as a brother-in-law to Tamar, Er's widow, by marrying her and producing offspring in his brother's name. This practice is known as levirate marriage, which was customary in ancient Israelite society to ensure the continuation of a deceased brother's lineage.

Onan, however, is unwilling to produce offspring that would not be considered his own. The text states that "whenever he lay with his brother's wife, he spilled his semen on the ground to avoid providing offspring for his brother." This act of coitus interruptus, or withdrawal, is seen as disobedience to the levirate obligation. As a result, God is displeased with Onan's actions and takes his life as well.

Interpretations and Legacy

The story of Onan has been subject to various interpretations throughout history. Traditionally, Onan's sin has been viewed as his refusal to fulfill his levirate duty, rather than the specific act of spilling his seed. However, the term "Onanism" has come to be associated with masturbation or withdrawal, due to a misunderstanding of the biblical text.

The narrative of Onan has been used in theological discussions about the nature of sin, obedience, and the importance of fulfilling familial and societal duties. It also highlights the significance of levirate marriage in ancient cultures and the consequences of failing to adhere to such customs.

Cultural Impact

Onan's story has had a lasting impact on religious teachings and cultural perceptions of sexual practices. In some religious traditions, the story has been used to discuss the morality of contraception and sexual ethics. The term "onanism" has been used in various contexts to refer to practices considered sinful or immoral by certain religious standards.

Also see

• Judah (biblical figure)
• Tamar (Genesis)
• Levirate marriage
• Book of Genesis
• Er (biblical figure)