- Does the opening sentence indicate a “blessing” or a prediction?
- What of Reuben’s life does Jacob recall and what does he predict?
- In Genesis 49:4 is “mishkevei avikha” singular or plural?
- What of Simeon and Levi’s life is recalled – and what is to become of them (Genesis 49:6 – 7)?
- In Genesis 49:8, Judah is described as the leader, but in Genesis 49:9 what is meant by “you went up from the tearing apart of my son”? Is this a reference to the Joseph/pit/sale story? (Other translations vary – mentioning that “from tearing prey you arose, my son”.)
- And in Genesis 49:10, is this a reflection on Judah and Shelah (vide: the Tamar story)?
- Who are the “sons” in Genesis 49:11 and does this relate to Tamar again?
- Are twins referred to in Genesis 49:12 (note play on the word “shina’yim”)?
- If the prior passages refer to history (Rueben, Simeon, Levi) – does this constitute a prediction (especially as some interpret Genesis 49:16)?
- Does the text re: Zebulun and Isaacher relate in any way to their being herders/shepherds?
- Why the text in Genesis 49:18 following the description of Dan in the previous verse?
- Genesis 49:22-26 deal with Joseph. Is there a specific blessing (see verse 25) and in verse 26 how is Joseph designated in terms of all of the tribes (brothers)?
- In the summary Genesis 49:28, the foregoing is described as “berakhot” – blessings. Do they so read?
- In Genesis 49:31, who is not included?
- The text notes that (Genesis 49:33) “when Jacob finished instructing his children he died”. Aside from the historical reference – any message?
