Genesis 48:8

When Israel saw the sons of Joseph, he asked, "Who are these?"

Study Bible

When Israel saw
The name "Israel" here refers to Jacob, who was renamed Israel after wrestling with God (Genesis 32:28). This name signifies his role as the patriarch of the Israelite nation. The act of seeing is not merely physical but also spiritual and prophetic, as Jacob is about to bestow blessings. In Hebrew, "saw" (רָאָה, ra'ah) often implies perceiving with understanding, suggesting that Jacob is discerning something significant about this moment.

the sons of Joseph
Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, are central to this narrative. They were born in Egypt to Joseph and Asenath, an Egyptian woman, which highlights the theme of God's providence and blessing extending beyond the traditional boundaries of the Israelite family. Their presence here signifies the continuation of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as they are about to be adopted into the Israelite lineage.

he asked, 'Who are these?'
This question may seem surprising, given that Jacob is their grandfather. However, it serves a deeper purpose. In Hebrew culture, questions often precede significant actions or revelations. This inquiry sets the stage for the formal adoption and blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh. It also reflects a moment of recognition and acknowledgment, as Jacob prepares to confer upon them the blessings that will shape their future and the future of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel (Jacob)
The patriarch of the Israelites, originally named Jacob. He is the father of Joseph and the grandfather of Ephraim and Manasseh. In this passage, he is nearing the end of his life and is preparing to bless his grandsons.

2. Joseph
The son of Jacob and Rachel, who rose to prominence in Egypt. He is presenting his sons to his father for a blessing.

3. Ephraim and Manasseh
The sons of Joseph, born in Egypt. They are brought before their grandfather, Israel, for a blessing that will integrate them into the Israelite heritage.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has become a powerful leader and where Jacob and his family have settled during a time of famine.

5. Blessing Ceremony
A significant event in the patriarchal accounts where the patriarch bestows blessings, often prophetic, upon his descendants.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Spiritual Heritage
Jacob's question, "Who are these?" underscores the importance of recognizing and affirming one's spiritual lineage. As believers, we are called to understand and embrace our identity in Christ.

The Role of Faith in Family Legacy
Jacob's act of blessing his grandsons is a demonstration of faith. It reminds us of the importance of passing down faith and spiritual values to the next generation.

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite the complexities of family relationships, God's purposes prevail. Joseph's sons, born in a foreign land, are integrated into the covenant promises, showing God's inclusive plan.

The Significance of Blessings
Blessings in the Bible often carry prophetic weight and spiritual significance. We should be intentional in speaking blessings and encouragement into the lives of others.

Recognizing God's Work in Unfamiliar Places
Just as Ephraim and Manasseh were born in Egypt, God often works in unexpected ways and places. We should remain open to His leading, even in unfamiliar circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's question, "Who are these?" reflect the importance of identity and spiritual heritage in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we, like Jacob, pass down our faith and values to the next generation?

3. How does the inclusion of Ephraim and Manasseh into the Israelite blessing demonstrate God's sovereignty and grace?

4. What are some practical ways we can speak blessings into the lives of those around us?

5. How can we remain open to God's work in our lives, even when it occurs in unexpected or unfamiliar places?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 27
The blessing of Jacob by Isaac, which parallels the importance of blessings in the patriarchal accounts.

Hebrews 11:21
This verse references Jacob's faith as he blesses the sons of Joseph, highlighting the spiritual significance of the act.

Genesis 41:50-52
Provides background on the birth of Ephraim and Manasseh in Egypt, emphasizing their Egyptian heritage and Joseph's journey.