Nawˬ lehˬ uiˍ taˆ la chehˇ ve iˉ kaˆ hkʼa shuˍ hpeh‸ ve yoˬ. Ya‸ hkʼaˇ, uiˍ jaˇ ve chaw hpeh‸ la tuˬ ve maˇ heˆ. Awˬ lawn kʼo, nawˬ lehˬ ngaˬ miˇ ma geh ca lo‸ zuh‸ leh, nawˬ pa ve zuh‸ hpui hta‸ maˇ shawˍ maˇ caˆ te ve pa taw yoˬ.
What Does This Mean?
In Genesis 49:4, Jacob is speaking to his son Reuben, criticizing him for not excelling due to his instability. Jacob is specifically referring to Reuben's actions of going to his father's bed, which defiled it.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you spilled water on the floor and it kept moving around. That's how Reuben was acting - he couldn't stay still or make good choices. Jacob was upset because Reuben did something very wrong with his bed.
Historical Background
This verse is part of Jacob's blessing to his sons before he died, around 1800-1600 BCE. It was written down much later as part of Genesis, reflecting the Hebrew cultural setting and understanding of family honor and sexual purity.
Living It Out Today
In modern terms, if someone in your family or community is known to make impulsive, poor decisions that harm others, they may not be trusted with leadership or important responsibilities, much like Reuben's situation.