Genesis
48 – 50
We finish out Genesis with Jacob and Joseph’s last days. We
also see how the 12 tribes changes slightly, at least for land ownership, since
the Levites cannot own land. I don’t understand why Joseph gets edged out, but
his sons Manasseh and Ephraim take Levi’s and Joseph’s places in the inherited
lands. Interesting how the 12 disciples lose Judas but add Paul to keep the
number at 12. I assume Joseph being removed was since his two sons would each
get the inheritance.
Anyway when Jacob is blessing his family, he runs through
each one with their flaws and virtues. Verses 49:10 & 11
10 The
scepter will not depart from Judah;
the ruler’s staff will rest securely between his feet.
Until
the One comes to whom true royalty belongs,
all people will honor and obey him.
11 He ties his foal to the vine
and his donkey’s colt to the choicest vine.
He
washes his clothing in wine
and dips his robe in the blood of grapes.
From Judah comes King David and eventually
Jesus. It’s amazing how God inspired Jacob to speak these words so far in
advance of either person walking the earth. This is what I talk about when it’s
cool to see how this all connects between the various books and times.
Genesis ends with Joseph’s life ending and
Israel living in peace in Egypt. We will see in Exodus how this changes
quickly, all because of paranoia. Keep reading!!