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His father refused, and said, "I know, my son, I know. He also will become a people, and he also will be great. However, his younger brother will be greater than he, and his seed will become a multitude of nations."

Verse Takeaways

1

God's Choice Defies Human Logic

Commentators emphasize that Jacob's deliberate choice to bless the younger son demonstrates a core biblical principle: God's grace does not follow human rules or expectations. Jacob wasn't mistaken; he was acting under divine guidance. God often chooses the unlikely to accomplish His purposes, showing that His blessings are based on His sovereign will, not human merit or natural order.

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Book Overview

Genesis

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Commentaries

5

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Genesis 48:1–22

18th Century

Theologian

The right of primogeniture has been forfeited by Reuben. The double portion in the inheritance is now transferred to Joseph. He is the first-born o…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Genesis 48:19

19th Century

Bishop

His younger brother shall be greater. —In the final numbering of the tribes on the plains of Moab, the tribe of Manasseh had 52,70…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On Genesis 48:19

16th Century

Theologian

He also shall become a people. Jacob does not dispute which of the youths will be the more worthy, but only pronounces what God had decree…

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John Gill

John Gill

On Genesis 48:19

17th Century

Pastor

And his father refused to have any alteration made, and therefore, though Joseph lifted it up from Ephraim's head and hel…

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Genesis 48:8–22

17th Century

Minister

The two good men acknowledge God in their comforts. Joseph says, They are my sons whom God has given me. Jacob says, God hath showed m…