The end of the book of Genesis also marks the end of Jacob’s life, but this does not mean the conclusion of God’s work. God will continue to work in the life of Israel as a nation, as can be seen through Jacob’s prophetic blessings on his sons.

1. Words of judgment (Gen 49:3-7)

In verse 7, Jacob used the word “cursed” though it was still a blessing since Reuben, Simeon and Levi would not be cut off from being God’s covenantal people. Reuben, as firstborn, should typically receive a greater blessing; but because of his sin in Genesis 35:22, he lost the privilege as the firstborn. Simeon and Levi, who also sinned, also lost their privileges. We must remember that sin comes with consequences.

2. Words of hope (Gen 49:8-12)

Here we see the promotion of Judah. Though not the firstborn, Judah was given the blessings of the firstborn. Jacob blessed Judah because of Judah’s self-sacrificing love. The blessing to Judah was that kings would come forth from the tribe of Judah, and more importantly the Messiah Himself. Do we leave behind words of hope of the Lord Jesus Christ to our children?

3. Words of purpose (Gen 49:13-21)

The blessings to Zebulun, Issachar, Dan, Gad, Asher and Naphtali had a purpose. Zebulun would occupy the coastal region. Issachar would be agricultural-based in the Northern Kingdom, but would be conquered and exiled. Dan would be given land beside the Philistines, but they later emigrated to the Northern part of Israel. Gad would settle in the Eastern region of Israel. Asher would enjoy the fruitful soil in the region of Mt Carmel. Naphtali (Barak) would be appointed to deliver Israel in the times of the Judges.

God has His calling and purpose as He puts His people in different places. All we have to do is obey and fulfil His calling and purpose for us.

4. Words of justice (Gen 49:22-27)

In Genesis 49:22-27 are words of faith, hope and promises as pronounced by Jacob to Joseph and Benjamin.

5. Jacob’s concluding words (Gen 49:28-33)

By faith, Jacob requested for his burial to be in the land of Canaan, God’s Promised Land. Though Jacob’s life ended, the work of God in the nation of Israel continues.