Take Two: Genesis 49, Proverbs 9

Genesis 49 details the blessings given by Jacob to his sons, while on his deathbed. The chapter ends with Jacob's death. As you read this chapter, a couple of things stand out immediately. I won't comment on every aspect of the chapter, since the imagery presented would take volumes; however, I do want to draw attention to some dominant characteristics.

In Gen 49:1-2 we see two major functions. First, we see the paternal authority and structure of the father calling together the sons. The family/clan/tribal unit is a major "deal" in Jewish culture. The great patriarch calling together the sons is a reflection of the respect and authority attributed to Jacob/Israel. Second, we also see that the blessings are prophetic as Jacob stated that he would tell them of the things that were to come.

Note: I have used the term "blessing" because the text does. Admittedly, some of what is pronounced in the chapter is more of a "curse" or "indictment" than a blessing. (That is actually one of the features I like about the OT. It gives you the facts--"warts and all.")

Gen 49:3-4 stands out because, while Reuben was the firstborn and was entitled to the rights of the firstborn, Jacob prophesies the loss of the "first" privileges (Gen 49:4) because he defiled and dishonored his father by having sexual relations with Jacob's concubine (Gen 35:22).

Gen 49:5-7 deals with Levi and Simeon who are cursed for their lack of self-control and wanton display of anger (Gen 34:25-30). They exacted revenge on their own, outside of the cultural or paternal expectations. As a result, they would lose their land blessing. (Recall that Levites received cities within the territories of the other tribes and Simeonites were given land within the boundaries of the tribe of Judah).

Judah receives a prophesy of honor, power and preeminence among the tribes (Gen 49:8-12). Most Jewish and Christian interpreters find the prophesy for the Davidic kingdom (Gen 49:10) and ultimately the Messianic Kingdom (Kingdom of God) in these verses. Gen 49:11-12 are a picture of abundance and blessing.

The lesser known tribes of Zebulun, Issachar, Dan, Gad, Asher, and Naphtali are listed in Gen 49:14-21. While less is said of them, they are listed by name in the passage.

Joseph is given prominence and blessing in Gen 49:22-26. The picture is blessing and recognition that rivals that of Judah; however, one should not take this to diminish the fact that Judah is the tribe from whom "the Ruler" (i.e. David and then Jesus) would come. Joseph is distinguished without being exalted above the distinction of being a ruler...which resides in Judah.

Benjamin, the youngest, is listed in Gen 49:27. He is well known for the courage, competence, zeal, and valor in battle. (See also 1 Chr 8:40).

Notice in Gen 49:28, the blessing for each fo the 12 was unique and fitting for the person. There was not a blanket statement. Each one was dealt with according to the prophesy and according to his deeds. Such is the same even today as God deals with His people...you and I. In Gen 49:29-33, Jacob charged his sons to bury him with Abraham in Canaan and then he died.

As we consider how to apply this chapter, I am mindful that each of the 12 tribes were named. Each was blessed as part of the family of Jacob. Each was also dealt with and blessed in their particular and unique role within the family. Even the seemingly less significant had a part to play. Paul's imagery of the church as Christ's Body comes to my mind. As such, each of us are dealt with...not according to an ideal...but uniquely and specifically according to our actions. Our role in the Body is a blessing...even if seemingly less significant than another role. In the Body, there is order, structure, and complementary blessing for the good of the entire Body. The collective (the Body, the clan) is higher priority than the individual (individual believer/ tribe).

Proverbs 9:6 is the takeaway. Living the "abundant life" or experiencing the "blessing" of life...involves two things that are really one in the same. We must turn from unwise living (foolishness) and turn toward understanding (applied wisdom). We cannot simply turn from living unwisely. We must also turn to something. We cannot live wisely and unwisely at the same time. We cannot experience rebellion and blessing at the same time. They must be a forsaking and an appropriating. As we forsake foolishness and pursue wisdom/understanding, we begin the journey toward blessing.

Grace.