1-2. Jacob called his sons together and said:My sons, I am Jacob,your father Israel.Come, gather around,as I tell your future.
3. Reuben, you are my eldest,born at the peak of my powers;you were an honoured leader.
4. Uncontrollable as a flood,you slept with my wifeand disgraced my bed.And so you no longer deservethe place of honour.
5. Simeon and Levi,you are brothers,each a gruesome sword.
6. I never want to take partin your plans or deeds.You slaughtered peoplein your anger,and you crippled cattlefor no reason.
7. Now I place a curse on youbecause ofyour fierce anger.Your descendantswill be scatteredamong the tribes of Israel.
8. Judah, you will be praisedby your brothers;they will bow down to you,as you defeat your enemies.
9. My son, you are a lionready to eat your victim!You are terribly fierce;no one will bother you.
10. You will have power and ruleuntil nations obey youand come bringing gifts.
11. You will tie your donkeyto a choice grapevineand wash your clothesin wine from those grapes.
12. Your eyes are darker than wine,your teeth whiter than milk.
13. Zebulun, you will settlealong the seashoreand provide safe harboursas far north as Sidon.