Gen 49:9-10 | TNotes

49:10 ^a This verse anticipates the kingship in Judah (cp. 17:6 ^b, 16 ^c; 35:11 ^d). Although the birthright blessing went to Joseph, Judah would provide Israel’s rulers (see 1 Chr 5:1-2 ^e). A long line of kings from Judah would retain the scepter, the symbol of rule; the last king would be the one to whom it belongs, the promised Messiah (see 2 Sam 7:4-16 ^f; Pss 2 ^g, 45 ^h, 60 ⁱ; Isa 11 ^j; Ezek 21:26-27 ^k; Zech 9:9 ^l; Rev 5:5 ^m).

• from his descendants: Literally from between his feet, a poetic euphemism for reproductive organs.

• until the coming of the one to whom it belongs (Or until tribute is brought to him and the peoples obey; traditionally rendered until Shiloh comes): These differences arise from ambiguities in the Hebrew text. Rule of Israel belongs to Judah’s descendant through David’s line (2 Sam 7:8-16 ⁿ), and he will eventually rule all nations, as signified by the bringing of tribute (see Pss 68:29 ^o; 72:8-11 ^p; Isa 2:2-4 ^q; Eph 4:8-10 ^r).