Old Testament
Genesis 50:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Joseph, who had risen to a position of great power in Egypt, is depicted as a loving grandfather.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Joseph saw Ephraim's descendants to the third generation. The children of Machir, the son of Manasseh, were also brought up on Joseph's knees.
And Joseph saw Ephraim’s children of the third generation: the children also of Machir the son of Manasseh were brought up upon Joseph’s knees.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph, who had risen to a position of great power in Egypt, is depicted as a loving grandfather. He witnesses the growth of his family, specifically seeing the third generation of Ephraim's descendants. This highlights the importance of family legacy and continuity. The mention of Machir, the son of Manasseh, being raised on Joseph's knees signifies a close familial bond and the passing down of values and traditions. Joseph's role as a nurturing figure emphasizes the significance of family relationships and the joy that comes from seeing one's lineage thrive. This moment also reflects God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Joseph's family, as they prosper in a foreign land. Overall, this verse encapsulates themes of family, legacy, and the blessings that come from God, showcasing the deep connections that can exist across generations.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 50:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to value our family relationships and invest time in nurturing them. It reminds us to celebrate the growth of our loved ones and to pass down our values and traditions. By doing so, we contribute to a strong family legacy that honors our heritage and strengthens our bonds.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 50:23 mean?
Genesis 50:23 describes Joseph witnessing the growth of his family, specifically seeing the third generation of Ephraim's descendants. It highlights the importance of family legacy and the joy of nurturing relationships across generations.
Who are the children of Machir mentioned in Genesis 50:23?
The children of Machir, the son of Manasseh, are mentioned as being raised on Joseph's knees, indicating a close familial bond. This highlights the nurturing role Joseph played in his family's life.
What themes are present in Genesis 50:23?
Themes in Genesis 50:23 include family legacy, generational blessings, nurturing relationships, and God's faithfulness. The verse emphasizes the joy of family connections and the importance of passing down values.
How can we apply Genesis 50:23 to our lives today?
We can apply Genesis 50:23 by valuing our family relationships and investing time in nurturing them. Celebrating the growth of our loved ones and passing down our values helps strengthen family bonds and create a lasting legacy.

The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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