Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 49:3 mean when it calls Reuven Yaakov's 'firstborn'?
A: This verse begins Yaakov's blessing to his firstborn son Reuven. In Jewish tradition (Rashi, Ramban), calling Reuven 'my firstborn' acknowledges his natural right to leadership and a double inheritance portion. However, due to Reuven's earlier actions (Genesis 35:22), these privileges were later given to others - kingship to Yehudah and the double portion to Yosef.
Q: Why does Yaakov call Reuven 'the beginning of my strength'?
A: The phrase 'beginning of my strength' (ראשית אוני) refers to the first fruits of a man's reproductive power (Rashi). In Jewish thought, a firstborn represents the father's initial creative energy. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) also connects this to the idea that the firstborn was traditionally meant to serve in the Mishkan before this role was given to the Levites.
Q: What is the significance of the 'excellency of dignity and power' mentioned in this verse?
A: The 'excellency of dignity (שאת) and power (עז)' refer to the natural advantages of being firstborn - the elevated status and leadership qualities Reuven could have possessed (Ibn Ezra). However, the Talmud (Berachot 7b) explains that while Reuven had potential for greatness, he lost these privileges due to his impulsive actions.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This teaches that while natural advantages (like being firstborn) matter, our actions determine our true spiritual status (Rambam). The Seforno notes that Reuven's story reminds us that even with great potential, we must act with wisdom and self-control to fulfill our roles properly.
Q: Why does Yaakov mention Reuven's strengths if he lost his firstborn rights?
A: According to Jewish commentators (Ramban, Sforno), Yaakov acknowledges Reuven's inherent qualities to show what could have been, while the subsequent verses explain why these privileges were transferred. This follows the Jewish principle of rebuke - first recognizing the good before correcting behavior (Proverbs 3:12).
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 49:3) is part of Yaakov Avinu's blessings to his sons before his passing. Here, Yaakov addresses his firstborn son, Reuven. The language reflects Reuven's status as the bechor (firstborn) and the inherent potential he held.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that Yaakov begins by acknowledging Reuven's status as the firstborn, which should have entitled him to a double portion of inheritance and the leadership of the tribes. The phrases "כֹּחִי וְרֵאשִׁית אוֹנִי" ("my might and the beginning of my strength") refer to the first fruits of Yaakov's vigor, as Reuven was his first child. However, Rashi notes that Yaakov immediately follows this with a rebuke (in the next verse) because Reuven lost these privileges due to his impulsive actions (see Bereshit 35:22).
Ramban's Insight
The Ramban (Nachmanides) elaborates that the terms "יֶתֶר שְׂאֵת וְיֶתֶר עָז" ("the excellency of dignity and the excellency of power") highlight the elevated status Reuven could have attained had he not sinned. The word "שְׂאֵת" (dignity) refers to the priesthood, and "עָז" (power) refers to kingship—both of which were originally destined for the firstborn but were later transferred to Levi (priesthood) and Yehudah (kingship).
Midrashic Interpretation
Halachic Implications
The Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 2:1) derives from this verse that the firstborn is entitled to a double portion of inheritance, as Yaakov initially affirms Reuven's bechor status. However, the subsequent loss of privileges serves as a cautionary lesson about the responsibilities that come with leadership.