Genesis 48:14
Genesis 48:14 in Multiple Translations
But Israel stretched out his right hand and put it on the head of Ephraim, the younger; and crossing his hands, he put his left on Manasseh’s head, although Manasseh was the firstborn.
And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon Ephraim’s head, who was the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh’s head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh was the firstborn.
And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon Ephraim’s head, who was the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh’s head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh was the first-born.
And Israel, stretching out his right hand, put it on the head of Ephraim, the younger, and his left hand on the head of Manasseh, crossing his hands on purpose, for Manasseh was the older.
But when Israel reached out his hands, he crossed them over and placed his right hand on Ephraim the younger son, and placed his left on Manasseh, the firstborn.
But Israel stretched out his right hand, and layde it on Ephraims head, which was the yonger, and his left hande vpon Manassehs head (directing his handes of purpose) for Manasseh was the elder.
And Israel putteth out his right hand, and placeth [it] upon the head of Ephraim, who [is] the younger, and his left hand upon the head of Manasseh; he hath guided his hands wisely, for Manasseh [is] the first-born.
Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it on Ephraim’s head, who was the younger, and his left hand on Manasseh’s head, guiding his hands knowingly, for Manasseh was the firstborn.
And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon Ephraim's head, who was the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands by design; for Manasseh was the first-born.
But he stretching forth his right hand, put it upon the head of Ephraim the younger brother; and the left upon the head of Manasses who was the elder, changing his hands.
But Jacob did not do what Joseph wanted him to do. Instead, he reached out his right hand and put it on Ephraim’s head, even though he was the younger son. He crossed his arms and put his left hand on Manasseh’s head, even though Manasseh was the older son.
But Jacob didn’t do that. No, he put his right hand on Ephraim’s head, even though Ephraim was the younger son. And then he crossed his left arm over his right arm, and he put his left hand on Manasseh’s head, even though Manasseh was the older son.
Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 48:14
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Genesis 48:14 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יִּשְׁלַח֩
יִשְׂרָאֵ֨ל
אֶת
יְמִינ֜/וֹ
וַ/יָּ֨שֶׁת
עַל
רֹ֤אשׁ
אֶפְרַ֨יִם֙
וְ/ה֣וּא
הַ/צָּעִ֔יר
וְ/אֶת
שְׂמֹאל֖/וֹ
עַל
רֹ֣אשׁ
מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה
שִׂכֵּל֙
אֶת
יָדָ֔י/ו
כִּ֥י
מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה
הַ/בְּכֽוֹר
וַ/יִּשְׁלַח֩
shâlach
H7971
to send
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יִשְׂרָאֵ֨ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
Israel
N-proper
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
יְמִינ֜/וֹ
yâmîyn
H3225
Ben]jamin
N-fs | Suff
וַ/יָּ֨שֶׁת
shîyth
H7896
to set
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
רֹ֤אשׁ
rôʼsh
H7218
head
N-ms
אֶפְרַ֨יִם֙
ʼEphrayim
H669
Ephraim
N-proper
וְ/ה֣וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Conj | Pron
הַ/צָּעִ֔יר
tsâʻîyr
H6810
little
Art | Adj
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
Conj | DirObjM
שְׂמֹאל֖/וֹ
sᵉmôʼwl
H8040
left
N-ms | Suff
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
רֹ֣אשׁ
rôʼsh
H7218
head
N-ms
מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה
Mᵉnashsheh
H4519
Moses
N-proper
שִׂכֵּל֙
sâkal
H7919
be prudent
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
יָדָ֔י/ו
yâd
H3027
hand
N-cd | Suff
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה
Mᵉnashsheh
H4519
Moses
N-proper
הַ/בְּכֽוֹר
bᵉkôwr
H1060
firstborn
Art | N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 48:14
וַ/יִּשְׁלַח֩
shâlach
H7971
"to send"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.
Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send
Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֨ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
"Israel"
N-proper
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
יְמִינ֜/וֹ
yâmîyn
H3225
"Ben]jamin"
N-fs | Suff
Benjamin was a son of Israel and Rachel, and the brother of Joseph, mentioned in Genesis 35:18. The name also refers to the right hand or south direction.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.35.18; son of: Israel (H3478) and Rachel (H7354); brother of: Joseph (H3130); half-brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); father of: Bela (H1106A), Becher (H1071), Ashbel (H0788), Gera (H1617), Naaman (H5283), Ehi (H0278), Rosh (H7220), Muppim (H4649), Huppim (H2650H), Ard (H0714), Ahiram (H0297) and Jediael (H3043); also called Jamin at 1Sa.9.1,4; 22.7; 1x Another name of bin.ya.min (בִּנְיָמִין "Benjamin" H1144G)
Usage: Occurs in 134 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] left-handed, right (hand, side), south. See also: Genesis 13:9; Psalms 18:36; Psalms 16:8.
וַ/יָּ֨שֶׁת
shîyth
H7896
"to set"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to place or set something, and it's used in many different ways, like appointing someone to a job or setting your mind to do something. It appears in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to lay hands on someone or make something happen.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, lay (hand upon) 1a2) to set, station, appoint, fix, set mind to 1a3) to constitute, make (one something), make like, perform 1a4) to take one's stand 1a5) to lay waste 1b) (Hophal) to be imposed, be set upon
Usage: Occurs in 80 OT verses. KJV: apply, appoint, array, bring, consider, lay (up), let alone, [idiom] look, make, mark, put (on), [phrase] regard, set, shew, be stayed, [idiom] take. See also: Genesis 3:15; Psalms 21:7; Psalms 3:7.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
רֹ֤אשׁ
rôʼsh
H7218
"head"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means chief or prince, and is used to describe leaders in the Bible, such as in the book of 1 Samuel. It signifies a position of authority and importance.
Definition: : head 1) head, top, summit, upper part, chief, total, sum, height, front, beginning 1a) head (of man, animals) 1b) top, tip (of mountain) 1c) height (of stars) 1d) chief, head (of man, city, nation, place, family, priest) 1e) head, front, beginning 1f) chief, choicest, best 1g) head, division, company, band 1h) sum
Usage: Occurs in 547 OT verses. KJV: band, beginning, captain, chapiter, chief(-est place, man, things), company, end, [idiom] every (man), excellent, first, forefront, (be-)head, height, (on) high(-est part, (priest)), [idiom] lead, [idiom] poor, principal, ruler, sum, top. See also: Genesis 2:10; Numbers 17:18; 2 Samuel 4:7.
אֶפְרַ֨יִם֙
ʼEphrayim
H669
"Ephraim"
N-proper
Ephraim means doubly fruitful, referring to Joseph's son and the tribe that descended from him. The tribe of Ephraim was a significant part of Israel's history. Ephraim is also the name of a region in the Bible.
Definition: Ephraim = "double ash-heap: I shall be doubly fruitful" the country of the tribe of Ephraim Also named: Ephraim (Ἐφραίμ "Ephraim" G2187)
Usage: Occurs in 164 OT verses. KJV: Ephraim, Ephraimites. See also: Genesis 41:52; 1 Chronicles 27:20; Psalms 60:9.
וְ/ה֣וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Conj | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
הַ/צָּעִ֔יר
tsâʻîyr
H6810
"little"
Art | Adj
This Hebrew word means something or someone is little, young, or insignificant. It appears in the Bible to describe something small in number or size. In the KJV, it is translated as least, little, or small.
Definition: 1) little, insignificant, young 1a) little, insignificant 1b) insignificant, mean 1c) young, younger, youngest
Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: least, little (one), small (one), [phrase] young(-er, -est). See also: Genesis 19:31; 1 Kings 16:34; Psalms 68:28.
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
Conj | DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
שְׂמֹאל֖/וֹ
sᵉmôʼwl
H8040
"left"
N-ms | Suff
This word means 'left' or 'north', referring to the left hand or side, as seen in KJV translations. It describes direction or orientation.
Definition: 1) the left, the left hand, the left side 1a) left 1b) left hand 1c) north (as one faces east)
Usage: Occurs in 53 OT verses. KJV: left (hand, side). See also: Genesis 13:9; 1 Kings 22:19; Proverbs 3:16.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
רֹ֣אשׁ
rôʼsh
H7218
"head"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means chief or prince, and is used to describe leaders in the Bible, such as in the book of 1 Samuel. It signifies a position of authority and importance.
Definition: : head 1) head, top, summit, upper part, chief, total, sum, height, front, beginning 1a) head (of man, animals) 1b) top, tip (of mountain) 1c) height (of stars) 1d) chief, head (of man, city, nation, place, family, priest) 1e) head, front, beginning 1f) chief, choicest, best 1g) head, division, company, band 1h) sum
Usage: Occurs in 547 OT verses. KJV: band, beginning, captain, chapiter, chief(-est place, man, things), company, end, [idiom] every (man), excellent, first, forefront, (be-)head, height, (on) high(-est part, (priest)), [idiom] lead, [idiom] poor, principal, ruler, sum, top. See also: Genesis 2:10; Numbers 17:18; 2 Samuel 4:7.
מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה
Mᵉnashsheh
H4519
"Moses"
N-proper
Manasseh was a grandson of Jacob and the ancestor of a large tribe in the Bible, mentioned in Genesis 41:51 and throughout the book of Numbers.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.2.10; son of: Amram (H6019) and Jochebed (H3115); brother of: Aaron (H0175) and Miriam (H4813); married to Zipporah (H6855); father of: Gershom (H1647) and Eliezer (H0461H); also called Manasseh at Jdg.18.30(?) Another name of mo.sheh (מֹשֶׁה "Moses" H4872) § Manasseh = "causing to forget" 1) the eldest son of Joseph and progenitor of the tribe of Manasseh 1a) the tribe descended from Manasseh 1b) the territory occupied by the tribe of Manasseh 2) son of king Hezekiah of Judah and himself king of Judah; he was the immediate and direct cause for the exile 3) a descendant of Pahath-moab who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 4) a descendant of Hashum who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: Manasseh. See also: Genesis 41:51; Joshua 22:21; Psalms 60:9.
שִׂכֵּל֙
sâkal
H7919
"be prudent"
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
To be circumspect means to be careful and thoughtful in your actions. In the Bible, this word is used to describe someone who is intelligent and prudent, like Solomon in 1 Kings 3:12.
Definition: 1) to be prudent, be circumspect, wisely understand, prosper 1a) (Qal) to be prudent, be circumspect 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to look at or upon, have insight 1b2) to give attention to, consider, ponder, be prudent 1b3) to have insight, have comprehension 1b3a) insight, comprehension (subst) 1b4) to cause to consider, give insight, teach 1b4a) the teachers, the wise 1b5) to act circumspectly, act prudently, act wisely 1b6) to prosper, have success 1b7) to cause to prosper Aramaic equivalent: se.khal (שְׂכַל "to contemplate" H7920)
Usage: Occurs in 63 OT verses. KJV: consider, expert, instruct, prosper, (deal) prudent(-ly), (give) skill(-ful), have good success, teach, (have, make to) understand(-ing), wisdom, (be, behave self, consider, make) wise(-ly), guide wittingly. See also: Genesis 3:6; Proverbs 1:3; Psalms 2:10.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
יָדָ֔י/ו
yâd
H3027
"hand"
N-cd | Suff
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה
Mᵉnashsheh
H4519
"Moses"
N-proper
Manasseh was a grandson of Jacob and the ancestor of a large tribe in the Bible, mentioned in Genesis 41:51 and throughout the book of Numbers.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.2.10; son of: Amram (H6019) and Jochebed (H3115); brother of: Aaron (H0175) and Miriam (H4813); married to Zipporah (H6855); father of: Gershom (H1647) and Eliezer (H0461H); also called Manasseh at Jdg.18.30(?) Another name of mo.sheh (מֹשֶׁה "Moses" H4872) § Manasseh = "causing to forget" 1) the eldest son of Joseph and progenitor of the tribe of Manasseh 1a) the tribe descended from Manasseh 1b) the territory occupied by the tribe of Manasseh 2) son of king Hezekiah of Judah and himself king of Judah; he was the immediate and direct cause for the exile 3) a descendant of Pahath-moab who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 4) a descendant of Hashum who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: Manasseh. See also: Genesis 41:51; Joshua 22:21; Psalms 60:9.
הַ/בְּכֽוֹר
bᵉkôwr
H1060
"firstborn"
Art | N-ms
In the Bible, this word refers to the firstborn child or animal, often holding a special status or responsibility. It appears in stories like Genesis and Exodus, highlighting the importance of birth order. The KJV translates it as 'eldest' or 'firstborn'.
Definition: 1) firstborn, firstling 1a) of men and women 1b) of animals 1c) noun of relation (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 96 OT verses. KJV: eldest (son), firstborn(-ling). See also: Genesis 10:15; Deuteronomy 21:17; Psalms 78:51.
Study Notes — Genesis 48:14
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Genesis 48:14 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Genesis 48:14
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 48:14
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
- Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
- Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
- Cambridge Bible on Genesis 48:14
- Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
- Sermons on Genesis 48:14
Context — Jacob Blesses Ephraim and Manasseh
12Then Joseph removed his sons from his father’s knees and bowed facedown.
13And Joseph took both of them—with Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel’s left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel’s right hand—and brought them close to him.
14But Israel stretched out his right hand and put it on the head of Ephraim, the younger; and crossing his hands, he put his left on Manasseh’s head, although Manasseh was the firstborn.
15Then he blessed Joseph and said: “May the God before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac walked, the God who has been my shepherd all my life to this day, 16the angel who has redeemed me from all harm— may He bless these boys. And may they be called by my name and the names of my fathers Abraham and Isaac, and may they grow into a multitude upon the earth.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 41:51 | Joseph named the firstborn Manasseh, saying, “God has made me forget all my hardship and all my father’s household.” |
| 2 | Psalms 118:16 | The right hand of the LORD is exalted! The right hand of the LORD performs with valor!” |
| 3 | Matthew 19:15 | And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there. |
| 4 | 1 Timothy 4:14 | Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you through the prophecy spoken over you at the laying on of the hands of the elders. |
| 5 | Numbers 8:18 | But I have taken the Levites in place of all the firstborn among the sons of Israel. |
| 6 | Genesis 46:20 | Manasseh and Ephraim were born to Joseph in the land of Egypt by Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On. |
| 7 | Matthew 6:5 | And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. |
| 8 | Matthew 19:13 | Then the little children were brought to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them. And the disciples rebuked those who brought them. |
| 9 | Acts 6:6 | They presented these seven to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. |
| 10 | Exodus 15:6 | Your right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power; Your right hand, O LORD, has shattered the enemy. |
Genesis 48:14 Summary
In Genesis 48:14, Israel blesses his grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh, but he does something unexpected - he crosses his hands to give the greater blessing to the younger son, Ephraim. This shows that God has the right to choose and bless whoever He wants, regardless of traditional expectations or human plans (Romans 9:10-13). Just like Israel, we can trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when things don't go as we expected. By surrendering to His plan, we can experience His blessings and provision in our lives, just as Joseph did in Genesis 48:14 (Psalm 37:3-7).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Israel cross his hands to bless Ephraim and Manasseh?
Israel crossed his hands to bless Ephraim and Manasseh because God had sovereignly chosen to bless the younger over the older, as seen in other biblical accounts such as Genesis 25:23 and Romans 9:10-13.
What is the significance of Israel using his right hand to bless Ephraim, the younger son?
The right hand is often associated with strength, authority, and blessing in the Bible, as seen in Psalm 118:16 and Matthew 25:33, so Israel's action signifies that Ephraim would receive a greater blessing than Manasseh.
Does this verse suggest that the firstborn always receives a lesser blessing?
No, this verse does not establish a universal principle that the firstborn always receives a lesser blessing, but rather it highlights God's sovereign choice in this specific situation, as seen in Genesis 48:14 and supported by Genesis 25:23.
How does this verse relate to the theme of God's sovereignty in the Bible?
This verse illustrates God's sovereignty in choosing to bless one person over another, as seen in Genesis 48:14 and supported by Romans 9:10-13 and Ephesians 1:4-5.
Reflection Questions
- What does this verse reveal about God's character and His ways of working in our lives?
- How does the crossing of Israel's hands to bless Ephraim and Manasseh speak to the idea of God's sovereignty and His right to choose?
- What are some ways that I can surrender to God's sovereign plan for my life, even when it doesn't make sense to me?
- How can I trust in God's goodness and wisdom when I face unexpected twists and turns in my journey, just like Joseph did in Genesis 48:14?
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 48:14
And Israel stretched out his right hand,.... Not directly forward, but across, or otherwise it would have been laid on Manasseh, as Joseph designed it should by the position he placed him in: and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 48:14
And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon Ephraim's head, who was the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh was the firstborn.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
The right hand was more honourable both in Scripture account, and amongst the Gentiles. Laid it upon Ephraim’ s head; which was a rite used often, and in divers cases, as in the conferring of offices either sacred or civil, as 13:3; and among other things, in giving benedictions, as . Guiding his hands wittingly; this proceeded not from chance, or the mistake and weakness of his eyes, but from design, and the wisdom of his hands. Heb. He disposed his hands prudently, or, he dealt wisely with his hands. Here was a double wisdom showed. 1. Human, by which he gathered that Manasseh was the eldest, because Joseph placed him towards his right hand. 2. Divine and prophetical, by which he foresaw Ephraim’ s advantage above Manasseh, and wisely suited the ceremony to the substance, giving the greater sign of honour to him, to whom God designed the thing.
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
Genesis 48:14 And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid [it] upon Ephraim’ s head, who [was] the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh’ s head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh [was] the firstborn.Ver. 14. Guiding his hands wittingly.] Cognoscebat palpando manibus suis, saith Junius: Intelligere fecit manus, saith Patens. An emphatical metaphor; as if he should say, Jacob with his eyes could not distinguish them, but his hands shall therefore do the office of his eyes. Bartolus writes of Dr Gabriel Nele, that by the motion of the lips only, without any utterance, he understood all men; perceived and read in every man’ s countenance what was his conceit. But that is far more credible, and no less admirable, that Jerome reports of Didymus of Alexandria; that though he had been blind of a little child, yet he was excellently skilled in all the liberal arts, and had written Commentaries upon the Psalms and Gospels, being at this time, saith he, eighty-three years of age. Bartol., lib. i., De Ver. Oblig. Jerome, in Catalogo Virorum Illustrium.
Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
(14) Guiding his hands wittingly.—The LXX., Syriac, and Vulg. translate, “placing his hands crosswise;” but the Targum of Onkelos favours the translation of our version. There is some amount of philological support for the rendering of the three chief versions; but it must mainly rest upon their own authority, which is, however, very great.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
Verse 14. Israel stretched out his right hand, c.] Laying hands on the head was always used among the Jews in giving blessings, designating men to any office, and in the consecration of solemn sacrifices. This is the first time we find it mentioned but we often read of it afterwards. See Numbers 27:18, Numbers 27:23; Deuteronomy 34:9; Matthew 19:13, Matthew 19:15; Acts 6:6; 1 Timothy 4:14. Jacob laid his right hand on the head of the younger, which we are told he did wittingly - well knowing what he was about, for (or although) Manasseh was the first-born, knowing by the Spirit of prophecy that Ephraim's posterity would be more powerful than that of Manasseh. It is observable how God from the beginning has preferred the younger to the elder, as Abel before Cain; Shem before Japheth; Isaac before Ishmael; Jacob before Esau; Judah and Joseph before Reuben; Ephraim before Manasseh; Moses before Aaron; and David before his brethren. "This is to be resolved entirely into the wise and secret counsel of God, so far as it regards temporal blessings and national privileges, as the apostle tells us, Romans 9:11; See Clarke on Genesis 25:23. But this preference has no concern with God's conferring a greater measure of his love and approbation on one person more than another; compare Genesis 4:7, with Hebrews 11:4, and you will see that a difference in moral character was the sole cause why God preferred Abel to Cain." - Dodd. The grace that converts the soul certainly comes from the mere mercy of God, without any merit on man's part; and a sufficiency of this is offered to every man, Titus 2:11-12. But it is not less certain that God loves those best who are most faithful to this grace.
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 48:14
14. guiding his hands wittingly] Better, as R.V. marg., crossing his hands. So LXX ἐναλλὰξτὰςχεῖρας = “the hands crosswise”; Lat. commutans manus. The aged Jacob is moved by a supernatural impulse to cross his hands as he blesses the two boys; and their destinies are determined accordingly.
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 48:14
14. Guiding his hands wittingly — Literally, he made wise his hands.
Sermons on Genesis 48:14
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Genesis) Genesis 48:14 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the new birth and how God does not choose individuals based on their natural abilities or birth order. The preacher uses t |
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Laying on of Hands by Anton Bosch | Anton Bosch discusses the principle of the laying on of hands, tracing its origins from the Old Testament where Jacob blessed Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, by crossing his h |
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On Eagles' Wings Pt 495 by Don Courville | In this sermon, the speaker tells the story of a family with four wicked sons and one tender-hearted youngest son. The father had trained the sons to be rascals, but the youngest s |
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Sing of His Victory! by Basilea Schlink | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of giving time to Jesus and seeking Him with an open heart. They encourage listeners to prayerfully immerse themselves in Jesu |
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Sing of His Victory by Basilea Schlink | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and seeking Jesus with an open heart. They highlight the power of prayer in bringing about important changes in our |
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Exposition on Psalm 118 by St. Augustine | St. Augustine preaches on the importance of praising the Lord and confessing His goodness, emphasizing that God's mercy endures forever. He encourages all, from Israel to those who |
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Letter 49 by James Bourne | James Bourne, in a letter to Revelation C. J. regarding his friend Mr. Maddy, emphasizes the importance of seeking God's presence and mercy in times of distress. He encourages them |