Old Testament
Genesis 48:16
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the Angel who has redeemed me from every harm—may he bless these boys. May my name and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac live on through them, and may they multiply greatly across the earth."
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The Angel which redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and let my name be named on them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth.
What Genesis 48:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 48:16, Jacob is blessing his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh. He acknowledges the Angel, likely a reference to God or a divine messenger, who has protected him throughout his life. Jacob desires that his grandsons carry on his legacy and the legacy of their great-grandfathers, Abraham and Isaac. By invoking their names, he emphasizes the importance of family heritage and faith. Jacob's blessing is not just a wish for prosperity but also a prayer for their spiritual growth and influence. He hopes they will thrive and multiply, becoming a significant part of the world. This moment highlights the importance of blessings in family and the desire for future generations to uphold the values and faith of their ancestors.
How to apply Genesis 48:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the blessings in our lives and to pass on our values and faith to future generations. It reminds us to pray for the well-being and spiritual growth of our children and grandchildren, ensuring that our legacy continues.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Jacob Blesses Joseph's Sons (Genesis 48:1–22)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 48:16 mean?
Genesis 48:16 describes Jacob blessing his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh, while acknowledging the divine protection he has received throughout his life. He expresses a desire for his family's legacy to continue through them, emphasizing the importance of faith and heritage.
What is the significance of the Angel in Genesis 48:16?
In Genesis 48:16, the Angel represents a divine messenger or God who has protected Jacob from harm. This acknowledgment highlights Jacob's gratitude for the guidance and safety he has experienced throughout his life.
What does Jacob wish for his grandsons in Genesis 48:16?
Jacob wishes for his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh, to be blessed, to carry on his name and the names of their great-grandfathers, Abraham and Isaac, and to multiply greatly on the earth, ensuring the continuation of their family legacy.
How does Genesis 48:16 relate to family legacy?
Genesis 48:16 emphasizes the importance of family legacy by showing Jacob's desire for his grandsons to inherit not only his name but also the faith and values of their ancestors, Abraham and Isaac, ensuring that their family heritage continues.
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