“Moreover I have given to thee one portion above thy brethren, which I took out of the hand of the Amorite with my sword and with my bow.”
In this verse, we find Jacob, also known as Israel, speaking to his son Joseph. To better understand the significance of this verse, let’s provide some context.
Context:Genesis 48 recounts the events leading up to Jacob blessing Joseph’s two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. Jacob is nearing the end of his life, and he asks Joseph to bring his sons before him so that he may bless them. When Joseph brings his sons, Jacob intentionally crosses his hands, placing his right hand on Ephraim, the younger son, and his left hand on Manasseh, the older son, to confer the greater blessing on Ephraim. Joseph tries to correct his father, but Jacob insists on blessing Ephraim as the greater of the two.
Now, focusing on Genesis 48:22, we find Jacob making a statement to Joseph after blessing his two grandsons. Let’s break down the verse to gain a deeper understanding:
“Moreover I have given to thee one portion above thy brethren”: Jacob is affirming to Joseph that he is giving him a portion or an inheritance greater than what his brothers will receive. This act signifies a special favour bestowed upon Joseph, likely due to the unique circumstances of his life, including his time in Egypt and his unwavering loyalty to his father.
“Which I took out of the hand of the Amorite with my sword and with my bow”: Here, Jacob is referring to a significant event where he engaged in military conflict, symbolised by the use of a sword and a bow, in order to acquire this portion or inheritance. The specific mention of the Amorites suggests that Jacob is recalling a historical event where he triumphed over this group of people and secured territory or resources for his descendants. The exact event referred to in this verse is not explicitly mentioned in Genesis. Some scholars propose that it may allude to Jacob’s victory over the Shechemites in Genesis 34, where he avenged the rape of his daughter Dinah. Others suggest that it could be a broader reference to the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites in the future.
Overall, Genesis 48:22 highlights Jacob’s deliberate act of bestowing a special portion on Joseph and acknowledges the significance of a military victory, likely symbolising God’s providential guidance and favour over the family of Israel. It also serves as a reminder of the unique role Joseph played in God’s plan for the twelve tribes of Israel.
As with any passage in the Bible, it is essential to study the surrounding verses and consult commentaries or theological resources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the text and its implications.
