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Book of Genesis - Chapter 49 - Verse 15

49:15
And he saw that rest was good, and the land that it was pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Genesis describes a moment when a man recognized the value of rest and the beauty of the land he inhabited. He understood the importance of taking a break and appreciating the good things around him. However, despite this realization, he still chose to take on the responsibility of bearing burdens and became a servant unto tribute. This shows the virtue of hard work and the willingness to serve others, even when one could have chosen to prioritize personal comfort. It also highlights the idea that rest is necessary but should be balanced with responsibility and service to others. This verse can serve as a reminder to find a balance between rest and work, appreciating the beauty of the world around us while also fulfilling our duties and obligations. It is a lesson in the importance of both self-care and altruism, as well as the value of recognizing and enjoying the pleasures of life while also being willing to shoulder burdens for the greater good.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from Genesis 49:15 is that it highlights the importance of recognizing the value of rest and acknowledging the blessings of the land. It shows the wisdom in humbly accepting the responsibilities that come with enjoying these blessings, symbolized by bowing the shoulder to bear. This act of willingly becoming a servant unto tribute can be seen as a form of grateful stewardship - recognizing the gifts provided by God and the need to honor them through service. Additionally, the verse can be seen as a reminder of the importance of humility and obedience in fulfilling one's duties and honoring the provisions of the land. Through this interpretation, the verse reveals insights into the principles of stewardship, gratitude, and the value of rest in the context of serving God and one another.

American Standard Version

And he saw a resting-place that it was good, And the land that it was pleasant; And he bowed his shoulder to bear, And became a servant under taskwork.
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