Genesis 48:13

Old Testament Law (Torah) ASV (1901)

What does Genesis 48:13 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “And Joseph took them both, Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel`s left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel`s right hand, and brought them near unto him.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

And Joseph took them both, Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel`s left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel`s right hand, and brought them near unto him.
Genesis 48:13 — American Standard Version

Context — Genesis 48

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
13And Joseph took them both, Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel`s left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel`s right hand, and brought them near unto him.

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 took them both, Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel’s left hand, etc.] He took Ephraim his youngest son in his right hand, and led him up to his father, by which means he would stand in a right position to have his grandfather’s left hand put upon him: and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel’s right hand; Manasseh his eldest son he took in his left hand, and brought him to his father, and so was in a proper position to have his right hand laid upon him, as seniority of birth required, and as he was desirous should be the case: and brought [them] near unto him; in the above manner, so near as that he could lay his hands on them.”
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Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown · Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Joseph took them both--The very act of pronouncing the blessing was remarkable, showing that Jacob's bosom was animated by the spirit of prophecy.”
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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