What does Genesis 48:21 mean?
After 147 years of struggle and controversy (Genesis 47:9, 28), Jacob is on his deathbed. He has just concluded giving a surprising blessing to Joseph's two oldest sons Ephraim and Manasseh. In fact, he has given to them the primary family blessing, declaring them to be his own sons and blessing them above his oldest son Reuben (Genesis 48:1–13). As part of that blessing, he has also elevated Joseph's second son, Ephraim, above Joseph's firstborn, Manasseh (Genesis 48:14–20).Now Jacob gives a reassurance to Joseph. Jacob makes clear to Joseph that even after he dies, God will still be with Joseph and the family. God will bring them back to the land of promise in Canaan. Jacob does not want Joseph to make the mistake of thinking that his death will mean the end of God's faithfulness to his offspring. The story won't end here.