Until Shiloh Comes

Genesis 49 contains Jacob's final words, which he introduces as telling that which will happen to you in the days to come. These are prophetic blessings that shape the future of the twelve tribes. Reuben, the firstborn, loses preeminence because of his sin (35:22); Simeon and Levi are rebuked for their violent anger at Shechem (chapter 34). Sin's consequences can reach far into the future. Yet grace remains: Levi's descendants later become the priestly tribe after their faithfulness in Exodus 32.

Judah's blessing is the high point. Though he was the fourth son, Judah receives leadership: The scepter will not depart from Judah. (Some translations render this phrase as until Shiloh comes.) Christians have read this as a promise of the Messiah. Kings came from Judah through David. In the New Testament, Jesus is called the Lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5). The images of a donkey and vine also point forward to the king who rides a donkey (Zechariah 9:9).

In the middle of the blessings, Jacob breaks into prayer: I have waited for your salvation, Yahweh. Joseph's blessing is full of names for God: the Mighty One of Jacob, the Shepherd, the Stone of Israel, God Almighty. Jacob dies giving instructions to be buried at Machpelah, the only land Abraham had owned in Canaan. His burial request is an act of faith in God's promise.