Genesis 48:12 — Meaning and Application

Now the eyes of Israel were dim for age, {so that} he could not see. And he brought them near unto him; and he kissed them, and embraced them. {dim: Heb. heavy}

And Israel said unto Joseph, I had not thought to see thy face: and, lo, God hath shewed me also thy seed.

And Joseph brought them out from between his knees, and he bowed himself with his face to the earth.

And Joseph took them both, Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel's left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel's right hand, and brought {them} near unto him.

And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid {it} upon Ephraim's head, who {was} the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh {was} the firstborn.