Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - Genesis 49:13-21
Here we have Jacob's prophecy concerning six of his sons. I. Concerning Zebulun (Gen. 49:13), that his posterity should have their lot upon the seacoast, and should be merchants, and mariners, and traders at sea. This was fulfilled when, two or three hundred years after, the land of Canaan was divided by lot, and the border of Zebulun went up towards the sea, Josh. 19:11. Had they chosen their lot themselves, or Joshua appointed it, we might have supposed it done with design to make Jacob's... read more
Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - Genesis 49:8-12
Glorious things are here said of Judah. The mention of the crimes of the three elder of his sons had not so put the dying patriarch out of humour but that he had a blessing ready for Judah, to whom blessings belonged. Judah's name signifies praise, in allusion to which he says, Thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise, Gen. 49:8. God was praised for him (Gen. 29:35), praised by him, and praised in him; and therefore his brethren shall praise him. Note, Those that are to God for a praise... read more