Genesis 49:1

¶ And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you [that] which shall befall you in the last days.

And Jacob {H3290} called {H7121} unto his sons {H1121}, and said {H559}, Gather yourselves together {H622}, that I may tell {H5046} you that which shall befall {H7122} you in the last {H319} days {H3117}.

Then Ya'akov called for his sons and said, "Gather yourselves together, and I will tell you what will happen to you in the acharit-hayamim.

Then Jacob called for his sons and said, “Gather around so that I can tell you what will happen to you in the days to come:

And Jacob called unto his sons, and said: Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the latter days.

Commentary

Context

The opening verse of Genesis chapter 49 sets the stage for one of the most significant prophetic passages in the Old Testament. Here, Jacob, also known as Israel, is on his deathbed, preparing to impart his final words and blessings to his twelve sons. This solemn gathering is not merely a farewell but a divinely inspired pronouncement concerning the future destiny and characteristics of each son, who would become the patriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob's actions mirror those of his forefathers, Abraham and Isaac, who also delivered prophetic blessings to their descendants.

Key Themes

  • Prophetic Revelation: Jacob's words are presented as a direct revelation of what "shall befall you in the last days," indicating a divine insight into the distant future of his offspring. This highlights God's sovereign plan unfolding through human history.
  • Generational Legacy: The passage emphasizes the lasting impact of a patriarch's life and words on subsequent generations. Jacob's pronouncements would shape the identity, territory, and even the spiritual disposition of the tribes for centuries to come.
  • Divine Destiny: While containing elements of blessing and curse based on the sons' past actions, the prophecies ultimately point to God's overarching plan for the nation of Israel, including the future coming of the Messiah.

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase in this verse is "in the last days" (KJV). In Hebrew, this is acharit ha-yamim (אַחֲרִית הַיָּמִים). This term does not always refer strictly to the eschatological "end times" as understood in New Testament prophecy, but often signifies a significant future period, a distant epoch, or the "days to come." In this context, it encompasses the long-term historical development of the tribes of Israel, including the period leading up to and including the Messianic era. It points to a time when God's ultimate purposes would be revealed through Jacob's descendants.

Practical Application

Genesis 49:1 reminds us that God is actively involved in human history, orchestrating events and revealing His plans across generations. For believers today, this verse underscores the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage and recognizing that God's promises and purposes extend through time. It encourages us to consider the lasting impact of our words and actions on those who come after us, and to trust in God's sovereign hand guiding the future, just as He guided the destiny of Jacob's sons.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Numbers 24:14 (6 votes)

    And now, behold, I go unto my people: come [therefore, and] I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.

  • Jeremiah 23:20 (5 votes)

    The anger of the LORD shall not return, until he have executed, and till he have performed the thoughts of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it perfectly.

  • Daniel 10:14 (5 votes)

    Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision [is] for [many] days.

  • Deuteronomy 4:30 (4 votes)

    When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, [even] in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice;

  • Psalms 105:15 (3 votes)

    [Saying], Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.

  • Psalms 25:14 (3 votes)

    The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.

  • Hebrews 10:24 (3 votes)

    And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: