Definition: And he blessed them that day, saying, In thee shall Israel bless, saying, God make thee as Ephraim and as Manasseh: and he set Ephraim before Manasseh.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 48:20. It's a really important passage about Jacob’s future role in the story of Israel! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jacob is saying that he will be the one to bless and celebrate with the Israelites. Let's unpack each part: “And he blessed them that day…” - This suggests a celebration or an event. It’s not just any blessing; it’s a special one. “…saying, In thee shall Israel bless…” – This is the core of the verse. Jacob is giving a specific blessing to the Israelites. "In thee" means “through you” - he's saying this blessing will come through him . “saying, God make thee as Ephraim and as Manasseh…” – This is where it gets really interesting. He’s comparing Jacob with two specific groups of people: Ephraim: This is a region in the Levant (modern-day Israel) that was historically significant for its ancient civilization. It's often seen as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. Manasseh: This is a region further east, connected to the northern part of Israel. It’s known for its strong tradition and connection to Abraham. So, what does this all mean? Jacob is essentially saying he will be the one who will lead and bless the Israelites in the future. He's positioning himself as a key figure in the lineage that will eventually establish Israel. He’s suggesting that he will be the one to ensure the prosperity and identity of the land. Important Note: This verse is complex and has been debated for centuries. It’s not just about Jacob being a powerful leader; it's a symbolic act of establishing his lineage as important within the history of Israel. In short, this verse describes a pivotal moment in Jacob’s life where he’s being given the responsibility to bless the Israelites and shape their future destiny. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Genesis 48? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail?