Overview
The Bible addresses twins across 7 verses, drawn from the Old Testament. These passages cluster most in Genesis. Closely related themes include Esau, Jacob, Rebekah and Pharez. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Esau, Isaac, Jacob and Perez.
Key Bible verses about twins
Old Testament
Genesis
And when her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb.
And the first came out red, all over like an hairy garment; and they called his name Esau.
And after that came his brother out, and his hand took hold on Esau's heel; and his name was called Jacob: and Isaac was threescore years old when she bare them.
And it came to pass in the time of her travail, that, behold, twins were in her womb.
And it came to pass, when she travailed, that the one put out his hand: and the midwife took and bound upon his hand a scarlet thread, saying, This came out first.
And it came to pass, as he drew back his hand, that, behold, his brother came out: and she said, How hast thou broken forth? this breach be upon thee: therefore his name was called Pharez. How hast: or, Wherefore hast thou made this breach against thee? Pharez: that is A breach
And afterward came out his brother, that had the scarlet thread upon his hand: and his name was called Zarah.
People in the Bible and twins
Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying twins for yourself
- Begin with Genesis 25:24, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Consider the lives of Esau, Isaac and Jacob and how their stories intersect with it.
- Widen the study to related themes: Esau, Jacob, Rebekah and Pharez.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about twins?
The Bible addresses twins across 7 verses, drawn from the Old Testament. These passages cluster most in Genesis. Closely related themes include Esau, Jacob, Rebekah and Pharez. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Esau, Isaac, Jacob and Perez.
How many Bible verses are about twins?
The Bible references twins in 7 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention twins?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Genesis 25:24: “And when her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb.”
Which people in the Bible are associated with twins?
Esau, Isaac, Jacob, Perez and Zerah.
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