Judah in the Bible is the fourth son of Jacob and Leah, and the founder of the Tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel
. His name, meaning "thanksgiving" or "praise," reflects Leah's gratitude to God at his birth (Genesis 29:35)
. Judah is a significant biblical figure known for his leadership among his brothers and his role in key family events. Notably, Judah suggested selling his brother Joseph to the Ishmaelites rather than killing him, showing early influence in family decisions (Genesis 37:26-28)
. Later, he demonstrated growth and responsibility by offering himself as a substitute to protect his youngest brother Benjamin during their journey to Egypt, reflecting his maturity and selflessness
. Judah married a Canaanite woman and had three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah. His daughter-in-law Tamar, after a complex story involving deception and justice, bore him twin sons, Perez and Zerah. Perez is an important ancestor in the lineage leading to King David and, according to Christian tradition, Jesus Christ
. The Tribe of Judah became one of the most powerful tribes in Israel, settling in the southern part of Canaan and giving its name to the Kingdom of Judah, from which the term "Jew" is derived
. Judah's descendants include notable biblical figures such as King David, King Solomon, and Jesus, who is often called "the Lion of the Tribe of Judah," symbolizing strength and messianic fulfillment
. In summary, Judah is a patriarchal figure whose story encompasses themes of leadership, repentance, and legacy, playing a central role in both Jewish and Christian traditions as the ancestor of the Davidic line and the Messiah
