“And Israel beheld Joseph’s sons, and said, Who are these?”
In this passage, we find Jacob (Israel) encountering Joseph’s two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. This event occurs towards the end of Jacob’s life, as he is preparing to bless his grandchildren before his passing.
Context: Before we examine the verse itself, it is essential to understand the broader context of Genesis 48. At this point, Jacob is residing in Egypt, where Joseph, his favored son, has become a prominent figure under Pharaoh. Jacob is old and aware that his days are coming to an end. In this chapter, Joseph brings his two sons to Jacob for a blessing.
Recognition of Joseph’s Sons: In Genesis 48:8, Jacob looks at Joseph’s sons and asks, “Who are these?” It may seem strange for Jacob, their grandfather, to ask such a question. However, it is important to note that Jacob’s eyesight was failing due to old age, as mentioned in Genesis 48:10. He couldn’t see clearly, so he needed clarification regarding the identities of Joseph’s sons.
Symbolism of Manasseh and Ephraim: The subsequent verses in Genesis 48 reveal the significance of Jacob’s question. Joseph responds, informing Jacob that these are his sons whom God has given him in Egypt. Jacob then asks to bless them and does something unusual: he deliberately crosses his hands, placing his right hand on Ephraim (the younger) and his left hand on Manasseh (the elder), intending to grant Ephraim the greater blessing. This act is symbolic and signifies the reversal of the birthright, as the younger son is elevated above the older. This pattern of blessing the younger over the elder becomes a recurring theme in the book of Genesis.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jacob’s intentional reversal of the birthright and blessing foreshadows a recurring pattern in the history of Israel. This act echoes God’s sovereign choice to establish His covenant through the younger son rather than the elder, as seen with Isaac and Ishmael, Jacob and Esau, and Joseph and his older brothers. It demonstrates God’s sovereignty in selecting and using whom He desires to fulfill His purposes, often overturning human expectations.
Lessons for Believers: This passage offers several lessons for believers today. It reminds us of God’s ability to work through unexpected circumstances and individuals, confounding human conventions and preferences. It also emphasizes the importance of God’s sovereignty in fulfilling His promises, despite outward appearances or human traditions. Additionally, it encourages believers to trust in God’s divine plan, even when circumstances may seem uncertain or confusing.
Genesis 48:8 serves as a transitional verse leading to the subsequent events of Jacob’s blessing and provides insight into God’s sovereign choice and fulfillment of His purposes.
