Genesis 49:13

13. At the coast of seas let him dwell These words concerning Zebulun are among the definite geographical allusions which rationalistic criticism adduces as evidence of the late origin of this prophecy . But so far from being situated upon the seas, or bordering on Zidon, Zebulun’s territory was entirely surrounded by that of other tribes, and touched neither sea nor land of Zidon . Compare Joshua 19:10-16; Deuteronomy 33:19. As designating geographical position, both this verse and its parallel in Deuteronomy would better fit Issachar and Asher, and, therefore, refute the idea that they were written after the conquest and allotment of the land . Better is the supposition that the dying father’s words sprang from what he had observed in the tastes and habits of this son a love of commerce, a desire for ships and trade upon the seas rather than by the travel of the desert caravans . Thus the allusion to seas, ships, Zidon the synonymes of ancient naval commerce would be most natural in the mouth of Jacob . Hence also a reason for the jussive rendering of ישׁכן , let him dwell . As a matter of fact, the tribe-territory of Zebulun extended between the Mediterranean and Galilean seas, though not touching upon either, and the words his side upon Zidon, or towards Zidon, do not necessarily mean that his territory would border on Zidon, but may denote that it looked that way, or that the tribe itself would come to have some peculiar dependence on Zidon, or some notable relations with the Phoenicians. In Deborah’s song this tribe is celebrated for skill in penmanship and heroism in battle. Judges 5:14; Judges 5:18.