“And Israel said unto Joseph, I had not thought to see thy face: and, lo, God hath shewed me also thy seed.”
To gain a better understanding of this verse, we can explore the context and the significance of the words spoken by Jacob (Israel). Let’s break it down:
Context:In Genesis 48, Joseph brings his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, to Jacob to receive their blessings. Jacob, who is near the end of his life, gathers strength and blesses the two boys. He adopts them as his own, making them equal heirs with his other sons. The verse in question is part of Jacob’s dialogue with Joseph during this encounter.
Unexpected Reunion:Jacob begins by expressing his surprise and joy at seeing Joseph again. The phrase “I had not thought to see thy face” reflects Jacob’s amazement because he had believed Joseph to be dead for many years. This sentiment underscores the emotional impact of the reunion between father and son. It serves as a reminder that God can bring about unexpected blessings and fulfil His promises even in the most unlikely circumstances.
Divine Revelation:Jacob acknowledges that God has shown him not only Joseph but also Joseph’s offspring. This statement highlights the spiritual insight and prophetic nature of Jacob’s blessing. Jacob recognizes that God has given him a special revelation, enabling him to see beyond the immediate present and perceive the future generations that will spring forth from Joseph. It signifies God’s faithfulness to the covenant made with Jacob’s forefathers and demonstrates His providential hand in the lives of His people.
Overall, Genesis 48:11 reveals the depth of Jacob’s gratitude for the reunion with Joseph and the revelation of his descendants. It emphasizes the unexpected nature of God’s blessings and the faithful fulfilment of His promises. This verse also serves as a reminder that God’s plans are often greater and more far-reaching than we can imagine, and He can bring about remarkable outcomes in our lives.
