What does Genesis 48:6 mean?
Jacob is dying. Joseph has brought his two oldest sons to his father so that three of them may receive a blessing from him (Genesis 48:1–5). Jacob's blessings and predictions for his other sons will be recorded in the following chapter.In the previous verse, Jacob announced he was claiming Joseph's two oldest sons, Ephraim and Manasseh (Genesis 41:50–52), as his own sons, rather than as his grandsons. In essence, Jacob was adopting them, and even elevating them to the rank of firstborn above even Reuben and Simeon. This would result in Joseph's line receiving the birthright and a double portion of the family inheritance.
Now Jacob mentions Joseph's other children. This is the first time Genesis has mentioned that Joseph has other offspring. Jacob makes clear to Joseph that he is not placing any claim on those children. They will take their place under their older brothers Ephraim and Manasseh in the inheritance, as Jacob's other grandchildren would do under their fathers. This emphasizes the fact that Jacob will truly consider Ephraim and Manasseh as his own sons, giving to each a full portion of the inheritance.