56 Perhaps the child was named Zerah because of the scarlet thread. Though the Hebrew word used for “scarlet thread” in v. 28 is not related to the name Zerah, there is a related root in Babylonian and western Aramaic that means “scarlet” or “scarlet thread.” In Hebrew the name appears to be derived from a root meaning “to shine.” The name could have originally meant something like “shining one” or “God has shined.” Zerah became the head of a tribe (Num 26:20) from whom Achan descended (Josh 7:1).

In other versions

Afterward his brother came out with the scarlet thread on his hand, and his name was called Zerah.

Then his brother, who had the scarlet thread on his wrist, came out. And he was named Zerah.

Then his brother, who had the scarlet thread tied to his hand, came out, and was named Zerah.

Then the baby with the scarlet string on his wrist was born, and he was named Zerah.

And afterward his brother who had the crimson thread on his hand came out. And his name was called Zerah.

And afterward came out his brother, that had the scarlet thread upon his hand: and his name was called Zarah.

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