Genesis 48:17

And when Ioseph saw that his father laide his right hand vpon the head of Ephraim, it displeased him: and he held vp his fathers hand, to remoue it from Ephraims head, vnto Manassehs head. Genesis 48:17 (KJV)

Context: Joseph, one of Jacob’s twelve sons, brings his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, to receive a blessing from their grandfather Jacob, who is near death and intends to bless the boys, signifying their future inheritance among the twelve tribes.

Significance of the right hand: In biblical culture the right hand symbolized blessing, honour, and authority. By placing his right hand on Ephraim’s head Jacob intended to grant him the greater blessing, even though Ephraim was the younger brother. This ran contrary to the usual expectation that the firstborn receives the primary blessing.

Joseph’s displeasure: Joseph, as the father of the two boys, was displeased when he saw Jacob’s hand on Ephraim’s head instead of Manasseh’s. He recognized that this deviated from the customary order of blessing according to birthright and tried to move Jacob’s hand from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s head.

Jacob’s response: Jacob refused Joseph’s attempt and reaffirmed his intention to bless Ephraim as the younger and Manasseh as the elder. He explained that Ephraim would become a multitude of nations, and although Manasseh would also become a great people, his younger brother would be even greater (Genesis 48:19).

The divine purpose: Jacob’s decision reveals God’s sovereign choice to work outside societal norms. God often selects the unexpected and unlikely individuals for His purposes. This act foreshadows the biblical pattern in which younger or seemingly insignificant persons are chosen for significant roles and blessings.

Lessons for us: The account teaches several important lessons. First, it highlights the need to recognise and submit to God’s sovereign will even when it contradicts human expectations or cultural conventions. Second, it reminds us that God’s blessings are not limited by birthright but are given according to His divine plan. Third, it encourages trust in God’s wisdom and providence, knowing He can work through unlikely circumstances to accomplish His will.

Conclusion: Genesis 48:17 demonstrates Jacob’s choice to bless Ephraim over Manasseh despite Joseph’s initial objection. The episode underscores God’s sovereignty and His ability to work through unexpected means, urging believers to trust in His wisdom and submit to His divine plan.