Hebrews 11:21

By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph's sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff.

Study Bible

By faith Jacob
The phrase "By faith Jacob" introduces us to the patriarch Jacob, whose life was marked by a journey of faith. The Greek word for faith, "pistis," implies a deep trust and confidence in God. Jacob's faith was not perfect, but it was persistent. His life, filled with struggles and divine encounters, reflects a growing reliance on God's promises. This faith is the same that believers are called to emulate, trusting in God's plan even when the path is unclear.

when he was dying
This phrase highlights the context of Jacob's actions—at the end of his life. The Greek word "apothnēskō" means to die or to be near death. Jacob's faith was not just a youthful zeal but a mature, enduring trust that persisted until his final moments. It reminds us that faith is a lifelong journey, and the culmination of a life lived in faith is often most powerfully expressed in our final acts and words.

blessed each of Joseph’s sons
Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, is a significant act of faith. The Greek word "eulogeo" means to bless or to speak well of. In the cultural and historical context, a patriarchal blessing was a powerful declaration of God's favor and future promises. Jacob, by faith, saw beyond his immediate circumstances and spoke into the future of his descendants, trusting in God's covenant promises to Abraham and Isaac.

and worshiped
The act of worship here is profound. The Greek word "proskyneō" means to bow down or to prostrate oneself in reverence. Jacob's worship, even in his frailty, signifies a heart fully surrendered to God. It is a reminder that true worship is not confined to a place or a moment but is a lifestyle of reverence and submission to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and grace.

as he leaned on the top of his staff
This phrase paints a vivid picture of Jacob's physical weakness juxtaposed with his spiritual strength. The staff, or "rhabdos" in Greek, symbolizes both his journey and his dependence on God. Throughout his life, Jacob had leaned on God, and now, in his old age, he physically leans on his staff as he worships. This imagery serves as a powerful metaphor for the Christian life—leaning on God through every trial and triumph, trusting Him to guide and sustain us.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
Also known as Israel, Jacob is a patriarch in the Bible, the son of Isaac and the grandson of Abraham. He is a central figure in the account of the Israelites and is known for his faith and the blessings he bestowed upon his descendants.

2. Joseph
Jacob's beloved son, who rose to prominence in Egypt. Joseph's life is a testament to God's providence and faithfulness, and his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, were adopted by Jacob as his own.

3. Ephraim and Manasseh
The two sons of Joseph, who were blessed by Jacob. This blessing was significant as it established their place among the tribes of Israel.

4. Staff
The staff symbolizes Jacob's journey and life as a shepherd and wanderer. It also represents his reliance on God throughout his life.

5. Blessing
The act of blessing Joseph's sons was a prophetic and faith-filled declaration of God's promises to future generations.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons demonstrates his unwavering faith in God's promises, even as he faced death. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises, regardless of their circumstances.

Legacy of Faith
Jacob's actions remind us of the importance of passing on a legacy of faith to future generations. We are called to invest in the spiritual lives of our children and grandchildren.

Worship in All Circumstances
Jacob worshiped God even in his old age and frailty, showing that worship is a lifelong commitment. We should strive to maintain a heart of worship throughout our lives.

God's Sovereignty in Reversals
The blessing of Ephraim over Manasseh illustrates God's sovereignty and His ability to work beyond human traditions and expectations. We should remain open to God's unexpected plans in our lives.

Reliance on God
Jacob leaning on his staff symbolizes his reliance on God. In our own lives, we should lean on God for strength and guidance, especially in times of weakness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's act of blessing Joseph's sons demonstrate his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this faith in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are passing on a legacy of faith to the next generation, as Jacob did with his grandsons?

3. How does the account of Jacob's blessing challenge our understanding of God's sovereignty and His plans for our lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can maintain a heart of worship throughout all stages of life, as exemplified by Jacob?

5. How can we learn to rely on God in our weaknesses, and what are some areas in our lives where we need to lean more on Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter provides the detailed account of Jacob blessing Ephraim and Manasseh, highlighting the reversal of the traditional birthright as Jacob places Ephraim, the younger, before Manasseh.

Genesis 32:24-32
Jacob's wrestling with God, where he is renamed Israel, signifies his transformation and deepening faith, which is evident in his later life as he blesses his grandsons.

Hebrews 11:1
The definition of faith as confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see, which underpins Jacob's actions in blessing his grandsons.