Genesis | Reading Plan + Study QuestionsNäide

GENESIS 49

JACOB BLESSES HIS SONS

After blessing his grandsons, Jacob blesses his sons and tells them what will become of their future.

Even though Reuben is the firstborn, he is no longer the first to the inheritance because he previously slept with Jacob’s concubine. Simeon and Levi murdered many people, trying to avenge their sister Dinah after she was raped, and Jacob says he wants nothing to do with their violent ways.

Jacob says that Judah will be praised and that he will defeat his enemies. Jesus will eventually come from the line of Judah, so this is truer than Jacob realizes!

Zebulun will live and work by the sea, Issachar will become a servant, Dan will be a judge, Gad will be attacked and overcome his enemies, Asher will make great food, Naphtali will have beautiful children, Joseph will be fruitful and strong, Benjamin will be like a wolf devouring his prey.

STUDY QUESTIONS

Genesis 49:8 says that the tribe of Judah will be praised. Read Matthew 1:1–17. Who were some significant descendants from the line of Judah?