Fourth son of Jacob, Judah soon established himself in the family as one who had genuine leadership qualities (Gen 29:31-35; 37:25-27; 43:1-10; 44:14-34; 46:28). Concerning his own sons he wanted to establish a strong family to carry on his name and inheritance (Gen 38:1-10). He himself, however, proved to be morally weak and an easy victim of sexual temptation (Gen 38:11-30). Jacob saw clearly that Judah’s tribe would become the leading tribe in the Israelite nation. It would conquer foreign enemies and rule over its brother tribes (Gen 49:8-12). Out of it came the great king David and finally the Messiah Jesus (Matt 1:3,6,16). (See also JUDAH, TRIBE AND KINGDOM.)