Genesis 48:12

Old Testament Law (Torah) ASV (1901)

What does Genesis 48:12 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “And Joseph brought them out from between his knees; and he bowed himself with his face to the earth.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

And Joseph brought them out from between his knees; and he bowed himself with his face to the earth.
Genesis 48:12 — American Standard Version

Context — Genesis 48

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
12And Joseph brought them out from between his knees; and he bowed himself with his face to the earth.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“And Joseph brought them out from between his knees, etc.] Either from between his own, where they were kneeling, as he was sitting, in order that they might be nearer his father, to receive his blessing by the putting on of his hands; or rather from between his father’s knees, he, as Aben Ezra observes, sitting on the bed, having kissed and embraced them, they were still between his knees; and that they might not be burdensome to his aged father, leaning on his breast, and especially, in order to put them in a proper position for his benediction, he took them from thence, and placed them over against him to his right and left hand: and he bowed himself with his face to the earth; in a civil…”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“- Joseph Visits His Sick Father 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 of her who was intended by Jacob to be his first and only wife. He has also been the means of saving all his father’s house, even after he had been sold into slavery by his brethren. He has therefore, undeniable claims to this part of the first-born’s rights. Genesis 48:1-7 After these things. - After the arrangements concerning the funeral, recorded in the chapter. “Menasseh and Ephraim.” They seem to have accompanied their father from respectful affection to their aged relative. “Israel strengthened himself” -…”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification