Genesis 48:17

When Joseph saw that his father had placed his right hand on Ephraim's head, he was displeased and took his father's hand to move it from Ephraim's head to Manasseh's.

Study Bible

When Joseph saw that his father had placed his right hand on Ephraim’s head
In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, the right hand symbolized power, authority, and blessing. The right hand was typically used to confer the primary blessing upon the firstborn. Joseph, aware of this tradition, expected his father Jacob to place his right hand on Manasseh, the elder son. This act of placing the right hand on Ephraim, the younger, was unexpected and significant, indicating a divinely inspired choice that defied cultural norms. This moment echoes the theme of God choosing the younger over the elder, as seen with Isaac over Ishmael and Jacob over Esau.

he was displeased
Joseph's displeasure reflects his understanding of the cultural and familial expectations regarding birthright and blessing. His reaction underscores the human tendency to rely on tradition and expectation rather than divine guidance. This moment highlights the tension between human plans and God's sovereign will, a recurring theme throughout Scripture.

and took his father’s hand to move it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s
Joseph's attempt to correct his father's action demonstrates his respect for the traditional order of blessing. However, it also reveals a lack of understanding of God's purpose in this situation. This act of trying to redirect the blessing parallels other biblical narratives where human intervention attempts to alter divine plans, such as Sarah's plan for Hagar to bear Abraham's child. It serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's wisdom and timing.

from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s
The specific mention of Ephraim and Manasseh is significant in the broader biblical narrative. Ephraim, though the younger, would become the more prominent tribe in Israel, fulfilling Jacob's prophetic blessing. This reversal of expectations is a type of Christ, who often upends societal norms and expectations, choosing the humble and lowly to accomplish His purposes. The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh would later play crucial roles in the history of Israel, with Ephraim often representing the northern kingdom. This moment foreshadows the unexpected ways God works through history to fulfill His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob and Rachel, who became a powerful leader in Egypt. In this passage, he is concerned about the blessing of his sons.

2. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch who is blessing his grandsons. He intentionally places his right hand on Ephraim, the younger grandson, signifying a greater blessing.

3. Ephraim
The younger son of Joseph, who receives the primary blessing from Jacob, contrary to cultural norms.

4. Manasseh
The elder son of Joseph, who traditionally would receive the greater blessing but is placed under Ephraim by Jacob.

5. Egypt
The land where this event takes place, as Joseph and his family are residing there during the famine.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Human Traditions
God's plans often transcend human customs and expectations. Jacob's blessing of Ephraim over Manasseh demonstrates that God's purposes are not bound by cultural norms.

Faith in God's Plan
Like Jacob, believers are called to trust in God's wisdom and direction, even when it contradicts societal expectations or personal desires.

The Role of Blessings
Blessings in the Bible often signify God's favor and purpose. Understanding the significance of blessings can deepen our appreciation for God's providence in our lives.

Acceptance of God's Will
Joseph's initial displeasure shows a natural human reaction to unexpected outcomes. However, believers are encouraged to accept God's will, trusting that His ways are higher than ours.

Generational Impact
The blessings Jacob gives have long-term implications for the tribes of Israel. Our actions and decisions can have lasting effects on future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jacob blessing Ephraim and Manasseh challenge our understanding of cultural norms and God's sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in situations that initially seem contrary to our expectations or desires?

3. How can the faith of Jacob in blessing his grandsons inspire us to trust in God's plans for our own families?

4. What are some modern examples where God's plans might differ from societal expectations, and how should we respond?

5. How can we ensure that our actions and decisions today positively impact future generations, as seen in the blessings of Jacob?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
The account of Jacob and Esau, where the younger (Jacob) is chosen over the elder (Esau), similar to Ephraim and Manasseh.

Hebrews 11:21
This verse highlights Jacob's faith as he blesses Joseph's sons, emphasizing the importance of faith in God's plans over cultural norms.

Romans 9:12-13
Paul discusses God's sovereign choice, using Jacob and Esau as an example, which parallels the choice of Ephraim over Manasseh.