Genesis 48: Jacob Blesses Joseph’s Sons

Key Verse: Genesis 48:19"But his father refused and said, ‘I know, my son, I know. He also shall become a people, and he also shall be great. Nevertheless, his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his offspring shall become a multitude of nations.’”

Genesis 48 is a deeply significant chapter, as Jacob, nearing the end of his life, calls for Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, to bless them. What seems like a simple family moment carries great spiritual importance—Jacob is passing on the blessing of God’s covenant.

Yet, in this blessing, something unexpected happens. Jacob, following a pattern we’ve seen before in Scripture, blesses the younger son over the older. This moment reminds us that God's ways are not always what we expect, but they are always right.

Jacob Adopts Ephraim and Manasseh

Joseph brings his two sons before his father, expecting Jacob to give the greater blessing to Manasseh, the firstborn. However, Jacob surprises everyone by adopting them as his own sons (Genesis 48:5-6).

This act was more than symbolic—it meant that Ephraim and Manasseh would now be counted as direct heirs of Jacob, just like his own sons. This is why, later in Israel’s history, the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh are counted among the twelve tribes of Israel.

This adoption mirrors what God does for us in Christ. We, too, have been adopted into God’s family, grafted into His promises (Romans 8:15). We are no longer outsiders—we are His children, co-heirs with Christ.

The Reversal of Blessing

As Joseph presents his sons, he places Manasseh (the older) at Jacob’s right hand and Ephraim (the younger) at his left. In Hebrew culture, the right hand symbolized the greater blessing—the one reserved for the firstborn.

But Jacob crosses his hands, placing his right hand on Ephraim and his left on Manasseh. Joseph quickly corrects his father, assuming it was a mistake, but Jacob insists:"I know, my son, I know… Nevertheless, his younger brother shall be greater than he." (Genesis 48:19)

This is not the first time we see God choosing the younger over the older.

• Abel’s offering was accepted over Cain’s.

• Isaac was chosen over Ishmael.

• Jacob himself was chosen over Esau.

Once again, God’s blessing does not follow human traditions or expectations. God chooses according to His divine will, not human customs.

This reminds us that God’s favor is not based on birth order, social status, or human qualifications. He chooses whom He wills, for His purposes. The world may expect one thing, but God often works in unexpected ways.

A Blessing That Lasts Generations

Jacob then gives a special blessing to Joseph, recalling how God had been faithful to him throughout his life. He acknowledges that it was only by God’s grace that he had been able to see Joseph again and now even his grandchildren.

This is a reminder that God’s blessings are meant to be passed down. The faithfulness of one generation should inspire the next.

We, too, are called to pass on the knowledge of God’s faithfulness to our children and to those around us. Our faith is not just for us—it’s meant to be shared and passed down.

Final Thought

Genesis 48 is a chapter about God’s sovereignty, unexpected choices, and the passing of a legacy of faith.

• God’s plans don’t always follow human expectations. He chooses whom He wills for His purposes.

• Blessings are not just for us but for future generations.

• Like Ephraim and Manasseh, we have been adopted into God’s family, receiving an inheritance of grace.

Maybe you feel overlooked, like Ephraim—a younger sibling not expected to receive much. Or maybe you’re like Manasseh, wondering why things didn’t go as planned. Trust that God’s plans are greater than our understanding, and His blessings are always intentional.