Genesis 48:20

So that day Jacob blessed them and said: "By you shall Israel pronounce this blessing: 'May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh.'" So he put Ephraim before Manasseh.

Study Bible

So that day he blessed them
The act of blessing in the Hebrew context, "בָּרַךְ" (barak), is deeply significant, often invoking divine favor and prosperity. Jacob's blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh is not merely a paternal wish but a prophetic declaration, carrying the weight of God's covenant promises. This moment is pivotal, as it establishes the future tribes' roles within Israel. The blessing is a continuation of the Abrahamic covenant, emphasizing the transmission of God's promises through generations.

and said 'By you shall Israel pronounce this blessing
The phrase indicates a future tradition within Israel, where Ephraim and Manasseh become benchmarks of divine favor. The Hebrew culture placed immense value on spoken blessings, which were believed to shape destinies. This pronouncement sets a precedent for future generations, highlighting the importance of these two tribes in Israel's history. It reflects the patriarchal authority and the belief in the power of words to invoke God's will.

May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh
This blessing is unique as it elevates Ephraim and Manasseh to a status comparable to the patriarchs. The invocation of God's name, "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), underscores the divine source of the blessing. Ephraim and Manasseh, born in Egypt, symbolize the integration of God's people into foreign lands while maintaining their identity and faith. This blessing is a prayer for prosperity, unity, and faithfulness, qualities that Ephraim and Manasseh exemplified.

So he put Ephraim before Manasseh
Jacob's decision to place Ephraim before Manasseh, despite the latter being the firstborn, is significant. It reflects a recurring biblical theme where God's choice defies human conventions, as seen with Isaac over Ishmael and Jacob over Esau. This act signifies God's sovereignty and the principle that divine election is based on His purposes rather than human merit or tradition. It also foreshadows Ephraim's prominence in Israel's history, as the tribe becomes a leading force in the northern kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch who blesses his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh, reversing the traditional order of blessing.

2. Ephraim
The younger son of Joseph, who receives the greater blessing from Jacob.

3. Manasseh
The elder son of Joseph, who receives a lesser blessing compared to his younger brother.

4. Joseph
The father of Ephraim and Manasseh, who presents his sons to Jacob for a blessing.

5. Blessing Event
A significant moment where Jacob, nearing the end of his life, imparts a prophetic blessing on his grandsons, setting a precedent for future generations.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God in Blessing
God's ways often defy human expectations and traditions, as seen in the blessing of Ephraim over Manasseh.

The Importance of Faithful Legacy
Jacob's blessing set a precedent for future generations, reminding us of the impact of our spiritual legacy.

The Role of Faith in God's Promises
Jacob's act of blessing was an expression of faith in God's promises, encouraging us to trust in God's plans for our lives.

The Value of Spiritual Heritage
The blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh became a model for Israel, highlighting the importance of passing down spiritual values.

God's Grace in Reversals
The reversal of the blessing order illustrates God's grace, choosing the unexpected to fulfill His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh reflect God's sovereignty in choosing whom He blesses?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we leave a faithful spiritual legacy for future generations?

3. How does Jacob's faith in blessing his grandsons inspire us to trust in God's promises today?

4. What are some examples in your life where God's plans have defied your expectations, similar to the blessing of Ephraim over Manasseh?

5. How can we apply the principle of God's grace in reversals to our understanding of His work in our lives and the lives of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 27
The blessing of Jacob by Isaac, which also involved a reversal of expectations, as Jacob received the blessing intended for Esau.

Numbers 6:24-26
The priestly blessing, which echoes the theme of divine favor and blessing upon the people of Israel.

Hebrews 11:21
Highlights Jacob's faith as he blesses the sons of Joseph, emphasizing the importance of faith in God's promises.

Deuteronomy 33:17
Moses' blessing of the tribes of Israel, where Ephraim and Manasseh are mentioned, showing the lasting impact of Jacob's blessing.

Romans 9:12-13
Discusses God's sovereign choice, similar to the choice of Ephraim over Manasseh, reflecting God's purposes beyond human traditions.