Overview
Pharez (also spelled Perez) was born to Judah and Tamar in a remarkable act of divine providence (Genesis 38:29). His twin brother Zerah appeared first, but Pharez emerged ahead of him, which is why he received a name meaning 'breaking through.' Pharez became the father of Hezron and ancestor of the royal line of David, ultimately appearing in the genealogy leading to Jesus Christ.
Key Scriptures
"And afterward his brother came out, that had the scarlet thread upon his hand: and his name was called Zerah" (Genesis 38:30, KJV). "And Judah begat Phares and Zara of Thamar" (Matthew 1:3, KJV). "These are the sons of Judah after their families: of Shelah, the family of the Shelanites: of Pharez, the family of the Pharzites" (Numbers 26:20, KJV).
Application
Pharez's inclusion in Christ's lineage reminds us that God uses unexpected circumstances and imperfect families to accomplish His redemptive purposes.