Genesis 48 recounts the account of Jacob’s blessing upon Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. In his old age, Jacob became aware of Joseph’s arrival, so he summoned him to his bedside. Jacob shared with Joseph his divine encounter with God Almighty in the land of Canaan and expressed his desire for Joseph’s sons to be included in the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant. Jacob declared that Ephraim and Manasseh would be regarded as his own sons, equal to Reuben and Simeon.
As Jacob prepared to bless the two boys, he purposefully crossed his arms, placing his right hand on Ephraim’s head and his left hand on Manasseh’s head. This was contrary to Joseph’s expectations, as he assumed the eldest, Manasseh, would receive the greater blessing. However, Jacob insisted that Ephraim would be greater than his older brother, and his descendants would become a multitude of nations.
This chapter demonstrates Jacob’s recognition of God’s sovereign plan and his intention to pass on the blessings to future generations. It emphasizes the significance of God’s choice and the reversal of societal norms. Through the blessing, Jacob ensured the fulfillment of God’s promises to his ancestors.
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