What does Genesis 48:21 Mean?

Context Summary

By his act in blessing them, Jacob reversed the verdict of birth, and gave the younger the birthright. Probably there were qualities in Ephraim which naturally put him in the foremost place. The Bible is full of hope for younger sons. He spoke of the Angel, Jehovah, so often referred to in the Old Testament, and who can be no other than the Son of God. He also is our Shepherd, Guardian and Friend. He will feed and tend us all our life long. He will redeem us from all evil and bring us to a blessed end in peace. Be of good cheer! He cared for you in your helpless infancy and will do no less in your helpless old age. If any lads hear this portion read let them notice that old Jacob prayed God to bless the lads. Evidently then, no little lad is too small for God to notice and bless! Though the fathers die, God lives and will bring us again to "the land of the leal." [source]

Chapter Summary: Genesis 48

¹  Joseph with his sons visits his sick father
²  Jacob strengthens himself to bless them
³  He repeats God's promise
⁵  He takes Ephraim and Manasseh as his own sons
⁷  He tells Joseph of his mother's grave
⁸  He blesses Ephraim and Manasseh
¹⁷  He prefers the younger before the elder
²¹  He prophesies their return to Canaan