Genesis 48:12

And Joseph brought them out from between his knees, and he bowed himself with his face to the earth.

And Joseph {H3130} brought them out {H3318} from between {H5973} his knees {H1290}, and he bowed {H7812} himself with his face {H639} to the earth {H776}.

Yosef brought them out from between his legs and prostrated himself on the ground.

Then Joseph removed his sons from his father’s knees and bowed facedown.

And Joseph brought them out from between his knees; and he bowed himself with his face to the earth.

Commentary

Genesis 48:12 describes a tender and significant moment as Joseph, the beloved son of Jacob, prepares his own sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, to receive a patriarchal blessing from their grandfather. The verse highlights Joseph's deep respect and humility before his aged father, who is acting as the spiritual patriarch.

Context

This verse is situated within Jacob's final days, as he gathers his family to bestow blessings and prophetic words before his passing. Joseph had brought his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, to Jacob for a blessing. Earlier in the chapter, Jacob had sovereignly declared Joseph's sons as his own, placing them on par with Reuben and Simeon, thereby ensuring Joseph would receive a double portion of the inheritance among the tribes of Israel (Genesis 48:5). The phrase "brought them out from between his knees" suggests Joseph moved his sons from a position of close proximity to Jacob, perhaps where Jacob had drawn them near in affection or adoption, to adjust their positioning for the specific act of blessing that was to follow, particularly the cross-handed blessing described in Genesis 48:14.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Profound Respect and Humility: Joseph's act of bowing "with his face to the earth" demonstrates immense reverence for his father, Jacob. This posture was a common sign of deep respect, submission, or worship in the ancient Near East. It signified not only filial honor but also an acknowledgment of Jacob's prophetic and patriarchal authority in bestowing a divine blessing. This humility is consistent with Joseph's character throughout his life, even when he held great power as the Viceroy of Egypt.
  • The Significance of Patriarchal Blessing: The scene underscores the vital importance of the father's blessing in ancient Israelite culture. These blessings were seen as pronouncements of future destiny and divine favor, carrying significant spiritual weight. Joseph understood the gravity of this moment for his sons' future and ensured they were presented properly.
  • Family Legacy and Divine Purpose: This interaction is a crucial step in the unfolding narrative of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Through Jacob's blessing, Manasseh and Ephraim would become significant tribes in Israel, impacting the nation's future. Joseph's actions here reflect his commitment to his family's spiritual heritage and God's overarching plan, which often involves using human actions to fulfill divine purposes.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "bowed himself with his face to the earth" uses the Hebrew verb shachah (שָׁחָה), which means "to bow down," "to prostrate oneself," or "to worship." This word is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe acts of reverence, submission, or adoration before God or a superior. Here, it conveys Joseph's deep veneration for his father, who, despite his physical weakness, was acting under divine inspiration as the head of the covenant family.

Practical Application

Joseph's example in Genesis 48:12 offers powerful lessons for believers today. His deep respect for his father, even in Jacob's old age and infirmity, reminds us of the importance of honoring our elders and those in authority, particularly spiritual leaders. His humility, despite being the powerful Viceroy of Egypt, shows that true greatness is often accompanied by a spirit of submission and reverence. We are called to approach significant spiritual moments, like receiving blessings, guidance, or instruction, with a similar attitude of humility and respect for God's appointed channels, understanding that God often works through His people. This verse encourages us to cultivate a heart of honor and submission, recognizing the spiritual significance of such gestures.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 42:6 (3 votes)

    And Joseph [was] the governor over the land, [and] he [it was] that sold to all the people of the land: and Joseph's brethren came, and bowed down themselves before him [with] their faces to the earth.

  • Ephesians 6:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

  • 2 Kings 4:37 (2 votes)

    Then she went in, and fell at his feet, and bowed herself to the ground, and took up her son, and went out.

  • Leviticus 19:3 (2 votes)

    Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I [am] the LORD your God.

  • Exodus 20:12 (2 votes)

    ¶ Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

  • Genesis 23:7 (2 votes)

    And Abraham stood up, and bowed himself to the people of the land, [even] to the children of Heth.

  • 1 Kings 2:19 (2 votes)

    Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a seat to be set for the king's mother; and she sat on his right hand.