Compare Deuteronomy 33:13 with Genesis 49:25; how are Joseph's blessings similar? The Two Blessing Passages “Concerning Joseph he said: ‘May the LORD bless his land with the precious dew from heaven above and with the deep waters beneath.’ ” “…by the God of your father who helps you, and by the Almighty who blesses you with blessings from the heavens above, blessings of the deep that lies below, blessings of the breasts and womb.” Shared Themes and Images • Heaven above & deep below – Both invoke blessings that descend from the skies and rise from subterranean springs, covering the full vertical sweep of creation. • Abundant water = abundant life – Dew and deep waters ensure fertile soil, good crops, and thriving herds (cf. Psalm 65:9-13). • Fertility imagery – Genesis adds “breasts and womb,” while Deuteronomy broadens to “produce” and “harvests” (vv. 14-15); both paint a picture of overflowing fruitfulness. • Divine initiative – Each passage roots the blessings in God Himself: “the LORD,” “the God of your father,” “the Almighty.” Every good gift comes from above (James 1:17). • Land-centered goodness – The focus is tangible provision for Joseph’s territory, confirming covenant promises about the land (Genesis 12:7; Joshua 17). Putting the Parallels Together • Moses (Deuteronomy) echoes Jacob (Genesis) to show God’s promises remain unchanged across centuries. • Jacob speaks prophetically at life’s end; Moses repeats the promise as Israel stands poised to enter Canaan. • Repetition assures Ephraim and Manasseh that their inheritance will overflow with water, crops, herds, and population—resources for leadership in Israel (Deuteronomy 33:17). Living the Lesson Today • God’s word is consistent; what He promises, He performs (Numbers 23:19; 2 Corinthians 1:20). • He blesses holistically—spirit, body, family, land. Trust Him for every layer of life’s need. • Remember the Source; praise “the LORD… the Almighty” rather than the gifts themselves (Deuteronomy 8:10-18). |
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