Genesis 49:12-14

The Voice

¹² His eyes are darker than wine,
and his teeth are whiter than milk.

Israel’s blessing speaks not only what is but what will be. His words establish Judah as the father to the royal line from which King David and his dynasty will one day come. They anticipate God’s eternal covenant with David that brings peace and prosperity to the entire world. It is little wonder that early Christians referred to the risen Jesus as “the lion of the tribe of Judah,” for they found in Him the fulfillment of Israel’s blessing.

¹³Jacob: Zebulun will settle near the shores of the sea,
        and he will be a safe harbor for ships.
        His border will extend to Sidon.
¹⁴    Issachar is a strong donkey,
        lying down between its saddlebags.^[a]