“And he blessed them that day, saying, In thee shall Israel bless, saying, God make thee as Ephraim and as Manasseh: and he set Ephraim before Manasseh.”
This verse is part of the account where Jacob (also known as Israel) is blessing Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. Jacob, who is nearing the end of his life, desires to pass on a special blessing to his grandsons.
Context and Background: In Genesis 48, Jacob has called Joseph and his sons to bless them. Joseph brings his sons before Jacob, who is lying on his deathbed. This blessing marks the passing of the birthright and the bestowing of Jacob’s spiritual heritage upon the younger son, Ephraim, rather than the firstborn, Manasseh.
Blessing the Descendants: Jacob pronounces a prophetic blessing on the two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, who will become heads of two of the twelve tribes of Israel. This blessing is significant because it symbolizes the transfer of Jacob’s covenant blessing and authority onto the younger son, Ephraim.
Ephraim and Manasseh: Jacob’s blessing establishes a reversal of the customary birthright privileges. Normally, the eldest son would receive the greater blessing and inheritance. However, Jacob intentionally crosses his hands, placing his right hand on Ephraim, the younger son, and his left hand on Manasseh, the older son. This act signifies Jacob’s prophetic insight into God’s plan for the future of the two tribes.
Spiritual Significance: By placing his right hand on Ephraim, Jacob bestows a greater blessing and prominence upon him. This choice by Jacob foreshadows the future history of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. Ephraim would become a dominant tribe, playing a vital role in the northern kingdom of Israel, while Manasseh would remain significant but not hold the same level of influence.
Application: The story of Ephraim and Manasseh teaches us several valuable lessons. It highlights God’s ability to work through unexpected circumstances and reverse human expectations. It reminds us that God’s plans often differ from our own, and He may choose to bless and use individuals in ways that we might not anticipate.
Additionally, the story demonstrates the importance of honoring God’s sovereignty and trusting in His divine wisdom. We should be open to His leading, even when it deviates from societal norms or conventional wisdom.
In summary, Genesis 48:20 portrays Jacob’s intentional blessing on Ephraim and Manasseh, indicating the reversal of birthright privileges. This act carries prophetic significance and underscores God’s ability to work through unexpected means and fulfill His purposes. The story encourages us to trust in God’s plans and remain open to His guidance in our own lives.
