Guiding Questions: Genesis 49

This is part of the Tanakh Yomi Project.

  1. Does the opening sentence indicate a “blessing” or a prediction?
  2. What of Reuben’s life does Jacob recall and what does he predict?
  3. In Genesis 49:4 is “mishkevei avikha” singular or plural?
  4. What of Simeon and Levi’s life is recalled – and what is to become of them (Genesis 49:6 – 7)?
  5. 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”.)
  6. And in Genesis 49:10, is this a reflection on Judah and Shelah (vide: the Tamar story)?
  7. Who are the “sons” in Genesis 49:11 and does this relate to Tamar again?
  8. Are twins referred to in Genesis 49:12 (note play on the word “shina’yim”)?
  9. If the prior passages refer to history (Rueben, Simeon, Levi) – does this constitute a prediction (especially as some interpret Genesis 49:16)?
  10. Does the text re: Zebulun and Isaacher relate in any way to their being herders/shepherds?
  11. Why the text in Genesis 49:18 following the description of Dan in the previous verse?
  12. 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)?
  13. In the summary Genesis 49:28, the foregoing is described as “berakhot” – blessings. Do they so read?
  14. In Genesis 49:31, who is not included?
  15. The text notes that (Genesis 49:33) “when Jacob finished instructing his children he died”. Aside from the historical reference – any message?

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  • Exploring Judaism

    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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Perek Yomi materials originally produced by the USCJ and Dr. Morton K. Siegel.
We are grateful to be able to share this material.

Author

  • Exploring Judaism

    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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