The Bible in Verse: A Poetic Interpretation of Holy Scripture

By Rob Bellingham

In the beginning, bereshith, the Genesis text begins,
God created heaven, earth, and many other things.

The world was dark, shapeless, with no life or light,
God said “Let’s have light,” so made day and night.

Water, water everywhere, in heaven and down below,
God sorted into clouds and rain, sea, lakes and snow.

Earth was next on the agenda, of God’s creative plan,
He filled it with plants, trees, fish, animals, birds, man.

He made stars, sun and moon, seasons hot and cold,
“Be fruitful and multiply” all creatures were told.

Scholars claim that one third of the bible is poetry, more easily recognized in Hebrew than most English versions.

In a poetic interpretation of the entire bible inspired by a conversation with God in 2010, Rob Bellingham shares a collection of rhyming couplets intended to be theologically sensitive regarding both gender and doctrine.

Bible in Verse is a volume of inspirational rhyming couplets that offers a creative, succinct, and memorable look at a very familiar text.

• Language: English
• Publisher: LifeRich Publishing
• Release date: Jan 19, 2023
• ISBN: 9781489745972

Rob Bellingham

Rob Bellingham trained for ministry at age twenty, pastored two churches, and traveled with his young family to Bangladesh and India to work with the poor. After a decade, he returned to New Zealand where he worked for TEAR Fund and World Vision and served as international leader of a mission. Now retired, he enjoys playing tennis, gardening, writing, and serving on church mission committees in Auckland and Rotorua.

Book preview

THE OLD TESTAMENT

GENESIS

GENESIS 1.

Creation

In the beginning, bereshith, the Genesis text begins,

God created heaven, earth, and many other things.

The world was dark, shapeless, with no life or light,

God said Let’s have light, so made day and night.

Water, water everywhere, in heaven and down below,

God sorted into clouds and rain, sea, lakes and snow.

Earth was next on the agenda, of God’s creative plan,

He filled it with plants, trees, fish, animals, birds, man.

He made stars, sun and moon, seasons hot and cold,

Be fruitful and multiply all creatures were told.

God said Good it’s good I like it, good 6 times good,

Very good he said last, as humans before him stood.

Resembling God, Adam and Eve they were named,

God said Be fruitful multiply, earth must be filled.

"Rule over fish and birds, and animals on the ground,

All plants, fruit trees, enjoy and eat what you find."

For animals birds and fish, he provided ample food,

Everything that had life, he gave all they would need.

GENESIS 2.

Creation Version Two

6 days of creating passed, and God said Now I rest,

He made day 7 special, that day he chose to bless.

Earth first was dry and bare, no rain watered it yet,

No people existed to till it, springs made earth wet.

God from dust made man, he breathed life into him,

He stood walked and talked, became a living person.

A garden God created there, with rivers all around,

Trees of every hue and fruit, in it could be found.

A river ran right through it, split into 4 branches,

Pishon led to gold land, onyx, stone and treasures.

Stream 2 Gihon circled Cush, 3rd was river Tigres,

East in Asshur land, and 4th the great Euphrates.

2 trees stood out in Eden, of knowledge and of life,

Don’t eat tree of good and evil, not you nor wife.

Adam got to name all plants, birds and the beasts,

It was a hard, lonely task, and soon he fell asleep.

He woke with a painful side, but joy was in his heart,

For Eve God made for him, to help new life to start.

She’s bone of my bone, of my flesh he exclaimed,

She’s called woman, she’s taken from man he said.

It explains why a man, leaves his father and mother,

In sex can join together, naked celebrate each other.

GENESIS 3.

The Fall

Eden had a sly serpent, who queried God’s command,

Tempted Eve to eat fruit, that God said was banned.

She and Adam enjoyed it, but then came to realize,

Shame and guilt followed, the opening of their eyes.

At dusk God keen to talk, Where are you? he called,

Ashamed they hid, behind fig leaves they’d sewed.

Who said you were naked? God asked them then,

Have you eaten from, the special tree with a ban?

Yes said Adam Eve gave me, the fruit and I ate it.

Eve responded the wily serpent, made me taste it.

God cursed the serpent to crawl, in dust on it’s belly,

Fear and hostility grew, between snake and humanity.

To Eve he said, "With pain in birth will come children,

You’ll seek to rule your husband, but be ruled by him."

To Adam he said "Earth’s cursed, because of you,

You’ll struggle to farm, as thorns, thistles grow too."

"By sweat of your brow, you’ll eat food and grain,

From dust of ground you came, to it you’ll return."

God in mercy made clothes, of animal skins for them,

Opined They’re like us now, know right from wrong.

"What if they take fruit, of the tree of life and eat it,

They’ll live forever" exiled, Eden no more to inhabit.

A mighty cherubim guarded east, flaming sword too,

Cut off access to Eden, for Adam, Eve, me and you.

GENESIS 4.

Results of Rebellion

Now Adam and Eve did, what young marrieds do,

And Eve became pregnant, with boy 1 and lad 2.

The elder was Cain, and the younger one Abel,

Cain tilled the ground, while Able kept a stable.

They each brought an offering, to honor God,

Abel brought a lamb, Cain fruit from the sod.

Abel’s offering of meat, most met God’s favor,

Cain feeling rejected, reacted with great anger.

He said to his brother, Come out to the field,

And there he beat him, till Abel lay dead, killed.

God called to Cain, Where is your brother?

I don’t know replied Cain, am I his keeper?

But God knew already, Abel’s blood was shed,

He made Cain a nomad, now Able was dead.

Cain wandered from Eden, east to land of Nod,

Where he built the first city, in defiance of God.

He also got married, had a son called Enoch,

Whose great grandson was, bigamous Lamech.

Lamech like Cain, killed a man and feared death,

Meanwhile Adam and Eve, had a son called Seth.

When Enosh Seth’s son, came into the world,

People began once again, to call on the Lord.

GENESIS 5.

Adam’s Descendants

In Genesis 5 there’s a record, of 10 generations,

From Adam to Noah, the earth’s early humans.

Seth was born when Adam, was 130 years old,

He lived another 800 years, till at 930 he died.

Seth’s son was Enosh, his dad 105 years alive,

He had more children, 812 years he’d survive.

Kenan was next, his dad was 90, 905 his total,

Mahalalel had children, and lived 895 years in all.

Jared his son was dad to Enoch, and lived 962 years,

Enoch loved God dearly, and age 365 he disappears.

God took him home, after having Methusaleh plus,

Methusaleh lived longest of all, 969 years he’d last.

He fathered Lamech, who lived 777 years on earth,

When Noah was born, he prayed for relief from work.

Farming was tough, for God had cursed the ground,

At 500 Noah’s 3, Shem, Ham, Japheth were named.

GENESIS 6.

Sons of God and Noah’s Story

Genesis 6 introduces, a strange story of Nephalim,

These sons of God, saw lovely daughters of men.

They took any they wanted, and bred mighty men,

God despaired at evil, and that he’d made humans.

First he decided they’d live, only 100 and 20 years,

Then decided to judge, the people and their peers.

God was broken hearted, for animals and humans,

Knew Noah was righteous, so planned to save him.

He told him to build, a great ark for animals, family,

Made of cypress wood, with rooms for everybody.

Tar pitch outside and in, size 140 x 23 x 14 metres,

Air vented at top, 3 decks for humans and animals.

"I’m sending a great flood, your family I want to save,

Gather male and female, of all creatures to preserve."

"I’m keeping my covenant, with you and your kin,

Your wife Shem, Ham and Japheth, and wives go in."

"I’ll send animals large and small, birds come too,

To keep you and them alive, in your floating zoo."

GENESIS 7.

The Great Flood

So Noah and sons built an ark, and when it was ready,

God said Take 7 pair beasts, to eat and stay healthy.

But just 1 pair of other animals, of each bird 7 pairs,

Select male and female, so each kind can survive."

In 7 days I’ll send rain, It will pour down 40 days,

Noah was 600 years old, when he shut the ark doors.

On cue springs erupted, and rain poured from the sky,

A 40 day 40 night deluge, no tree or hill they’d spy.

8 metres over mountain, far and wide it spread,

No person or earth creature, escaped and survived.

Flood waters covered land, for 150 days - a half year:

The ark and it’s cargo, were the only ones still there.

This set the principle, we must follow God’s ways,

And teaches us the truth, evil and sin never pays.

GENESIS 8.

The Floodwaters Recede

Rain and springs were restrained, and rivers receded,

Then a wind blew strongly, and floodwaters abated.

150 days from when rain began, the great ark sat,

On a mountain of Mesopotamia, called Mt Ararat.

45 days passed and, they sighted more mountain,

After another 40 days, Noah released one raven.

It flew back and forth, till the floodwaters dried up,

A dove also was sent out, to find dry land to stop.

But it couldn’t find any, so returned to the boat,

7 days later he tried it again, as ark stayed afloat.

This time in evening, the dove returned leaf in beak,

Noah waits 7 more days, let it go and not come back.

10 months from first rain, the earth began drying,

2 months came the day, for which all were waiting.

God told Noah "Leave the boat, be fruitful, multiply,

You animals and birds, enjoy a new earth and sky."

They departed in pairs, each from it’s ark berth,

To populate again, build homes, find food on earth.

Noah built an altar, made burnt offerings of thanks,

God smelling it said, In no future circumstance,

"Though sin and evil return, I’ll not curse or destroy,

I’ll provide help for each person, adult girl or boy."

"Seedtime and harvest, winter cold, summer heat,

I’ll not destroy creation, day and night shan’t cease."

GENESIS 9.

God’s Covenant with all Creatures

God said to Noah, "You are the most blessed,

I’m making you the ruler, over all of the rest."

"Every beast of the earth, every fish of the sea,

Every bird of the air, are food provided for thee."

"Manage, nurture, protect them, eat what you can,

They’re my provision, for the wellbeing of man."

"But don’t shed the blood, of any human being,

The image of God, from creation they’re bearing."

"Your 3 sons and wives, will have many children,

To spread over the earth, as I once said to Adam."

The sky will bear witness, to what I’ve decided,

Never again will a flood, destroy all I created."

"A multicoloured rainbow, will stretch across sky,

For you to remember, this solemn covenant by."

Now Noah tilled the land, and planted a vine,

When the grapes grew, he drank too much wine.

Ham passing saw him naked, in his tent asleep,

Shem and Japheth covered, him from head to feet.

Noah cursed Ham’s son Canaan, prophesied he,

Slave to his uncles, Shem and Japheth would be.

Now Noah lived in the land, 350 years more,

Nine hundred and fifty, was his final score.

GENESIS 10.

Nations of the Ancient World

Genesis 10 is exciting, if you like genealogy,

It lists descendants, of Noah’s nautical family.

Japheth’s descendants, spread down the coast,

Of new nations and languages, they could boast.

Ham was great-great, grandfather of Nimrod,

A famous mighty hunter, with spear and sword.

The kingdom of Babel, became their domain,

The great city of Ninevah, their claim to fame.

Canaan became famous, the land bore his name,

Including Sodom and Gomorrah, cities of ill fame.

Shem’s progeny peopled, the lands to the east,

Which hosted many people, plus bird and beast.

So Noah’s sons, had large families and spread,

Across the Middle East, after the great flood.

GENESIS 11.

The Tower and Scattering at Babel

In the city of Babel, they built a great tower,

As a way to be famous, and exert their power.

They made burnt bricks, with bitumen mortar,

Reaching for the sky, it grew higher and higher.

All spoke one language, from the old to the new,

And told each other, There’s nothing we can’t do.

But God was not happy, when he took a peep,

He said I’ll confuse them, mix up their speech.

They ceased making the city, their trowels lay still,

God scattered them abroad, for that was his will.

2 years after the flood, Shem had a son Arphaxad,

His son Shelah fathered Eber, who also was a dad.

Peleg was father to Reu, Serag was his first son,

Serag begat Nahor and Nahor Terah, dad of Abram.

All of them with their wives, had many children,

And people lived, 2 hundred years plus then.

Terah’s family is key, to this ongoing God story,

As dad of Abram, Nahor, Haran, Haran died early.

His son Lot survived him, Abram made Sarai wife,

Nahor married Milcah, Haran’s daughter his neice.

But Sarai was childless, one day Terah with them,

Abram, Sarai and Lot, left Ur of the Chaldeans.

They were headed for, the land of Canaan,

Terah lived 205 years, and then died in Haran.

GENESIS 12.

The Call of Abram, Visiting Egypt

The Lord told Abram, "Leave your native country,

Father’s family relatives, a new land you’ll see."

So Abram took Sarai, and Lot and their goods,

In Moreh they passed, a great oak in the woods.

God said "I’ll give you, all the land you can see,

From Bethel to Ai, mount to sea yours will be.

Abram stopped and built there, an altar of stone,

To his God who promised, he’d never be alone.

In South Canaan there was, a famine severe,

Abram went on to Egypt, which was quite near.

At the border he said, to Sarai his fine wife,

Say you’re my sister, or they may take my life.

Pharoah saw her beauty, took her to his harem,

Gave fine land for the sheep, and cattle of Abram.

But God brought illness, to Pharaoh’s household,

He chastised Abram, She’s your sister was told.

"You should not have made, this happen to me,

Take all you have brought, back over the sea."

With oxen camels asses, and sheep Abram went,

His servants and Sarai, nephew Lot and their tent.

GENESIS 13.

Abram and Lot Separate

Abram was very rich, in cattle, silver and gold,

Arriving back in Bethel, he again talked to God.

Lot also was rich, in servants, herds and tents,

"It’s too small for us 2, was the herdmen’s lament.

Abram responded, "Let there be no strife,

If you choose to go left, I’ll go to the right."

Lot saw Jordan Valley, well watered and green,

Cities Sodom, Gomorrah, lush fields inbetween.

So Lot chose the valley, to increase his wealth,

For Abram and co, it was hilly where they dwelt.

Then the Lord said again, to Abram his friend,

This land’s for you, and children without end.

"Go walk around it, from the east to the west,

From north to south it’s yours, you will be blest."

So Abram surveyed the land, all he could see,

Then he built an altar, by the oaks of Mamre.

GENESIS 14.

Abram Rescues Lot, Melchizedek’s Blessing

Lot chose the wrong time, near Sodom to dwell,

For war broke out there, and his life became hell.

A fierce battle was fought, in the valley of Siddim,

A band of 4 kings, with Kerdorlaomer as kingpin.

Against the 5 kings, of Sodom and Gomorrah,

Joined by kings of Admah, Zeboi’im and Zoar.

It was 4 kings against 5, but the 4 were the best,

Some died and some fled, they captured the rest.

News reached to Abram, via a Lot clan escapee,

And he gathered his forces, at the oaks of Mamre.

He chased Kerdorlaomer, from Damascus to Dan,

And routed them till, he found Lot and his clan.

His men came home, many goods they did bear,

Plus all Lot’s goods, and his people were there.

Melchizedek king of Salem, and priest of God,

Met Abram who offered, him wine and bread.

He blessed Abram and God, for the great victory,

Abram gave him in return, 1/10th of the bounty.

Abram had promised, heaven and earth’s maker,

To live life as a giver, and no more as a taker.

GENESIS 15.

God’s Promise to Abram

Again God told Abraham, in a clear night vision,

Fear not I’m your shield, and your provision.

But God said Abram, "I don’t have a son,

And a slave of my house, will be the main one."

Not so said the Lord, "all the stars you can see,

Try to count them, so your descendants shall be."

God also said then, "I’ve given you this land,

This is a promise, by which I’ll always stand."

Abram prepared a sacrifice, to show the Lord,

His willing acceptance of all, he’d just been told.

A heifer, a goat, and a sturdy ram he divided,

A turtledove and a pigeon, he also selected.

That night in deep sleep, great gloom many fears,

God showed in a dream, they’d be slaves 400 years.

Then judgement would fall, on that foreign land,

But God would rescue them, with his mighty hand.

That night God confirmed, with fire on the altar,

He’d give them the land, forever hereafter.

GENESIS 16.

Hagar and Ishmael

The next ten years passed, living in Canaan,

But Sarai Abraham’s wife, still had no children.

She suggested to Abram, he sleep with her maid,

So Abram and maid Hagar, did just as she said.

But Hagar once pregnant, teased her mistress,

Causing poor Sarai, much sadness and distress.

Hagar ran from her anger, sat down at a spring,

An angel came asked her, Where are you going?

The angel said, "Return, submit to your mistress,

For descendants of yours, will also be numberless."

Your son when born, you must name Ishmael,

Beerlarhairoi was the place, and name of the well.

"He’ll grow up to be strong, a wild ass of a man,

He’ll fight all the kinsmen, of every other clan."

So Ishmael was born, in Abram’s 87th year,

And for the next 13 years, was the sole heir.

GENESIS 17.

Abram to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah,

Covenant Confirmed

When Abram was 99 years, a rather old man,

God said I’m changing, your name to Abraham.

"It’s meaning is the father, of many nations,

This covenant will last, through all generations."

"I will be your God, and you will be my children,

And the land of Canaan, will be your possession."

"The sign of this covenant, will be circumcision,

Of every 8 day old male, in each generation."

Sarai also from now, will have a name change,

She’ll give birth to a fine son, in her old age."

Despite previous promises, Abraham laughed,

Thought a son for wife Sarah, at age 90 is daft.

No it’s not said God, "Isaac will be his name,

My promise to you and him, will be the same."

Then Abraham gathered, together all the men,

And had them all circumcised, in the foreskin.

There Abraham and Ishmael, and every slave,

Shared the covenant, God and Abraham made.

GENESIS 18.

Sarah Promised a Son, Abraham Prays for Sodom

As Abraham sat at entrance, to his tent one day,

He noticed three men, coming slowly his way.

He ran out to greet them, and made a request,

To stop at his tent, eat and rest as his guest.

He brought them some cakes, water for their feet,

Then milk and curd, and some very special meat.

They said, "Next year, a new son will be yours,

Despite your wife Sarah, well past menopause.

When Sarah heard this, she couldn’t believe,

That at age of 90, she could possibly conceive.

She laughed, then denied it, for she was afraid,

God might renege, on the promise he’d made.

The Lord and his angels, then left and moved on,

To visit nearby cities, of Gomorrah and Sodom.

Reports of their evil, had reached up to heaven,

But Abraham pleaded, If there’s 50 good men,

"Will you destroy, the righteous ones too,

What if there’s just 45, or 40 who remain true?"

"Or 30 or 20 innocents, what if there’s just 10,

And God told him, "I’d spare their cities then.

GENESIS 19.

Sodom and Gomorrah Destroyed

Two angels went to Sodom, at end of one day,

And Lot who lived there, begged them to stay.

They said We can spend, the night in the street,

But Lot washed their feet, gave them meat to eat.

Soon all the men of Sodom, circled the house,

Where are the men who came, bring them out.

Lot said "Don’t do, such a wicked immoral thing,

I’ve 2 virgin daughters with me, them I can bring."

The men threatened Lot, and pressed like the tide,

But the angels grabbed Lot, and pulled him inside.

They said "God is going, to burn up this place,

Now you and your family, pack up and escape."

When Lot did not hurry, the angels took pity,

They pushed Lot, wife, and 2 girls out of the city.

Next morn Sodom Gomorrah, were burnt by fire,

Smoke filled the valley, like a great funeral pyre.

Lot’s wife looking turned to salt, God didn’t save,

While Lot and 2 daughters, went to live in a cave.

Lot’s 2 virgin daughters, began to pine for a man,

Let’s get our dad drunk, tonight was their plan.

When Lot was asleep, they lay down with him,

Soon Moab and Ben-ammi, were born to them.

GENESIS 20.

Abraham Deceives Abimelech

Abraham travelled on, to the region of Gerar,

There told king Abimelech, Sarah’s my sister.

But God told the king, in a dream that night,

The woman he’d taken, was Abraham’s wife.

The king hadn’t touched her, he pleaded his case,

Called Abraham urgently, to come to his palace.

He told him "Lying to me, my favour to win,

Nearly caused me to commit, a very great sin."

Abraham confessed it true, he feared for his life,

Said lovely Sarah, was both half-sister and wife.

Abimelech restored Sarah, and gave gifts as well,

Of slaves sheep and oxen, and a place to dwell.

He also gave Abraham, 1000 pieces of silver,

To show he’d not sinned, with Sarah his half-sister.

His deeds pleased God, who opened the womb,

Of Abimelech’s women, and lifted their gloom.

GENESIS 21.

Isaac is Born, Hagar and Ishmael Exiled,

Covenant with Abimelech

Now the Lord came to Sarah, and she bore a son,

They called his name Isaac – the promised one.

Isaac was circumcised, when eight days old,

And Sarah rejoiced, she at last nursed a child.

When Isaac was weaned, they had a feast day,

Sarah was jealous, seeing him and Ishmael play.

She said to Abraham, "Exile Ishmael and mother,

Don’t make him an heir, with Isaac his half-brother."

Abraham wasn’t happy, losing Ishmael his first son,

God counselled him, Sarah’s wish should be done.

So he sent them away, with water and bread,

They wandered in the desert, with sand for a bed.

With no water and food, with hot sun in the sky,

God responded, to mother and son’s urgent cry.

God showed them a well, from which to draw water,

They survived in the desert, with Ishmael a hunter.

Abimelech saw God blessed, Abraham living there,

And proposed a treaty, be signed ’tween the pair.

Abimelech’s servants, had stolen Abraham’s well,

But neither man’s servants, was willing then to tell.

The covenant was made by them, at Beersheba,

A tamarisk tree was planted, to the God of forever.

GENESIS 22.

Abraham’s Faith Test, Nahor’s Family

One day God put Abraham’s, faith to the test,

He asked him to sacrifice, the son he loved best.

Abraham took some wood, and loaded his ass,

Journeyed 3 days, with some servants and Isaac.

Abraham Isaac up mount, took wood, fire, knife,

Till they came to the place, to end Isaac’s life.

Young Isaac was puzzled, for there was no lamb,

God will provide one, Abraham assured him.

Then Abraham tied Isaac, on the altar he’d made,

He raised the knife, but his hand was then stayed.

God knew then Abraham, would trust and obey,

And showed him a ram, for the altar that day.

The name of the place, became God will provide,

And Abraham descended, with Isaac at his side.

God reminded Abraham, that he’d be blessed,

Because he’d willingly, passed the tough test.

Like the stars in the sky, and sand on the shore,

God said his descendants, would grow ever more.

Nahor had eight sons, with his wife Milkah,

And 4 more children, with concubine Reumah.

GENESIS 23.

Burial of Sarah, Buying a Cave

At Hebron in Canaan, Sarah died aged 127 years,

Abraham mourned for her, and shed many tears.

He said to Hebron elders, at the city gates,

Intern my wife here, I’ve no burial place.

For I am a stranger, and sojourner here,

Hittites responded, You can bury anywhere.

You’re a great prince, to you for Sarah it’s free,

Abraham asked Sell, Machpelah cave to me?

Ephron who owned it, said To you it’s a gift,

But Abraham insisted, I want to pay for it.

The conversation flowed, going back and forth,

Till Ephron opined, 400 shekels the land’s worth.

Abraham counted out, 400 in silver by weight,

In presence of Hittites, entering the city gates.

So the field and trees, and cave on the land,

Became the first owned, by Hebrews in Canaan.

There Abraham laid his wife, Sarah to rest,

In the cave of Machpelah, on Hebron’s east.

GENESIS 24.

A Wife for Isaac

When Abraham was old, a senior servant he called,

And said I want you to swear, now before the Lord.

"That you’ll not take, a Canaanite wife for my son,

But return to my country, find a wife from my kin."

The servant replied, "What if she won’t come,

Do I then take Isaac, to join her in her home?"

No way said Abraham, for the Lord told me,

The land of Canaan, your inheritance will be.

This was all sealed, with a hand on the thigh,

As an oath to the Lord, of the earth and the sky.

The servant loaded 10 camels, with gifts galore,

And went to Mesopotamia, the home of Nahor.

Outside the city, the camels knelt at a well,

I need a sign God said the servant, so I can tell

"When women collect water, may chosen one be,

The one who offers water, to my camels and me."

Just then Rebekkah, a young virgin so fair,

Offered water to him, and camels right there.

He gave her 2 bracelets, and a shiny gold ring,

Asked Do you have space, for us to lodge in?

The servant praised God, for answering his quest,

Finding a wife for Isaac, and a place to rest.

Rebekkah’s brother Laban, showed him the way,

Unloaded the camels, gave them water and hay.

The servant didn’t eat, till he’d told them the story,

Of Abraham and Isaac, and reason for the journey.

They listened then said, "Rebekkah must go,

This plan is the Lord’s, we’ve all come to know."

The servant gave gifts, to Rebekkah and her mother,

Of silver and gold, and fine clothes for her brother.

The servant and his men. then ate drank and slept,

Their mission rewarded, the oath had been kept.

Laban and her mother, wanted Rebekkah to stay,

While the servant was keen, to be on his way.

They asked Rebekkah, Will you go with this man?

Rebekkah replied, If my nurse joins me I can.

They blessed her saying, "May you bear many sons,

Your descendants be so strong, all enemies will run."

Rebekkah and her nurse, mounted camels that day,

Following Abraham’s servant, as he went on his way.

They came to the place, where Isaac was living,

And field where he’d meditate, each fine evening.

Rebekkah dismounting her camel, put on her veil,

While the servant told Isaac, the wonderful tale.

Isaac took Rebekkah home, and made her his wife,

He loved her and together, they began a new life.

GENESIS 25.

Abraham and Keturah, Isaac and Esau’s Descendants, Blessings and Birthright

After Sarah had died, Abraham married again,

And Keturah gave birth, to 6 sons with him.

All Abraham owned, became Isaac’s inheritance,

Other sons received, other gifts in recompense.

Abraham sent them away, to live in the east,

Then he at 175 years old, breathed his last.

Sons Isaac and Ishmael, buried him with Sarah,

In the cave he had purchased, in Machpelah.

Ishmael had 12 sons, all leaders of tribes,

Before he died, aged a modest 137 years.

Isaac and Rebekkah 20 years, had no offspring,

Until God intervened, and did a wonderful thing.

She gave birth to twins, and as per a prophecy,

Younger grew stronger, than the older would be.

Esau the older brother’s body, was hairy and red,

He as a great hunter, ate meat more than bread.

Jacob homely, spent much time with his mother,

She pampered him, as her most favoured brother.

One day Esau came, to the tent tired and hungry,

Jacob said I’ve porridge, sell your birthright to me.

Esau swore it over on oath, thinking if he died,

What use would it be, so his birthright despised.

GENESIS 26.

Isaac and Abimelech

A famine came to the land, of Canaan at that time,

So Isaac went to Gerar, to Abimelech the Philistine.

The Lord said to Isaac, "Stay here in this land,

Which I promised, the descendants of Abraham."

So Isaac settled there, with Rebekkah his wife,

But called her his sister, for fear of his life.

When Abimelech realised, they were a pair,

He warned all his people, not to touch her.

God there blessed Isaac, made him rich and strong,

He re-dug wells, that to Abraham once belonged.

Philistines had filled them, their herdsmen fought,

Water was scarce in the land, plagued by drought.

Isaac went to Beersheba, where God spoke to him,

I’m Abraham’s God, I’ll bless you with many kin.

Abimelech with Phicol army chief, visited Isaac’s tent,

They made an oath of peace, feasted then went.

They said God’s with you, all you do will prosper,

That day Isaac’s men, dug a well and found water.

At age 40 Isaac took, two local Hittite wives,

Who made a hell of, Rebekkah and Isaac’s lives.

GENESIS 27.

Jacob Steals Esau’s Blessing and Flees

When Isaac was old and blind, ready to die,

He asked first son Esau, to make venison pie.

He planned to bless him, but Rebekkah overheard,

She said to Jacob, You must follow my word.

"Go and get 2 lambs, and I’ll cook a fine dish,

Then Isaac will bless you, that’s my top wish."

With Esau’s clothes, neck and hands with skins,

She made Jacob feel like Esau - a very hairy man.

The food was soon ready, Jacob went to his dad,

Isaac said "You sound like Jacob, my younger lad.

But the smell was of Esau, so Jacob he blessed,

And promised him that, he’d be ahead of the rest.

Esau returned, and made food for father Isaac,

Then both discovered, Jacob’s cunning trick.

He’d stolen Esau’s blessing, Esau sad then wept,

He begged father Isaac, for any blessing he’d kept.

Isaac told him he’d live, by sword and hard work,

But one day he’d be rid of, the yoke on his neck.

He plotted to kill Jacob, when grief for Isaac was done,

But Rebekkah ordered Jacob, Flee to Haran my son.

"Stay with uncle Laban, till it’s safe to come back,

"I’ll get you from there, when you’re safe from attack.

GENESIS 28.

Jacob’s Dream

Before dying Isaac told Jacob, "Marry a cousin,

From Paddan-aram, a daughter of uncle Laban."

He went with dad’s blessing, into next stage of life,

While brother Esau, took Ishmael’s daughter as wife.

After travelling all day, Jacob slept on a stone,

Angels came visiting, so he didn’t sleep alone.

Many angels went up and down, a stairway to heaven,

God said This land to you, and descendants is given.

"Your family will spread, north, south, east and west,

And by them all the families, of earth will be blessed."

I will be with you and protect you, wherever you go,

Jacob awake said, God was here and I didn’t know.

This sacred place, is house of God - heaven’s gate

And turned his stone pillow, into an altar to celebrate.

He made there a vow, to always give God a tithe,

If he provided for him, food and clothes to survive.

GENESIS 29.

Jacob Meets Rachel and Laban

Jacob travelling east, came to some sheep at a well,

Asked the shepherds, Where are you from, pray tell.

They said "We’re from Haran, and Laban we know,

His daughter Rachel’s here soon, with sheep in tow."

Jacob rolled the stone, from well for sheep and her,

Then watered the sheep, of his mother’s brother.

He kissed Rachel and wept, so happy to meet them,

And Laban came from his tent, to welcome him.

Now Laban had 2 daughters, named Leah and Rachel,

He offered Jacob wages, to help him farm well.

Jacob said I’ll work here, 7 years for Rachel’s hand,

Agreed Laban said, for he loved Rachel and the land.

The 7 years passed for Jacob, as if they were a day,

He told Laban Let the wedding, be without delay.

Laban invited many guests, but late that night,

Gave Leah to Jacob, to sleep with as his wife.

Waking next morning, Jacob argued with Laban,

You cheated, Wedding older first is our custom.

"After the bridal week, I’ll give Rachel to you too,

If you work 7 more years," which Jacob said he’d do.

Each wife had a maid, Zilpah and Bilhah by name,

So Jacob slept with both wives, it wasn’t the same.

He loved Rachel much more, but Leah had children,

With her firstborn said, He’ll love me for Rueben.

Soon pregnant again, she gave birth to Simeon,

Her third son was Levi, while Rachel still had none.

A fourth son was born, for Judah Leah praised God,

Then she stopped, having children to boast of.

GENESIS 30.

Jacob’s Family Grows

Rachel pled with Jacob, Give me kid’s or I die,

He angry with her, It’s not me, God’s will is why.

So she said to him, Sleep with Bilhah my maid,

He did - she had a son Dan, and made Rachel glad.

Bilhah had son two, Rachel named him Naphtali,

Said Barren I struggled, but God has helped me.

Leah reacted by offering Zilpah, as Jacob’s wife 4:

Rachel was catching up, jealous she wanted more.

Zilpah birthed Gad, Leah said How fortunate I am,

Next boy Leah named Asher, happy with her man.

One day Rueben brought, mandrakes from field,

Rachel argued with Leah, they should be shared.

You stole my husband, was Leah’s angry retort,

Give me some - I’ll let, Jacob be with you tonight.

He was and she fell pregnant, an answer to prayer,

Soon boys Issachar and Zebulun, were born to her.

Later Leah had a daughter, Dinah the name given,

God took pity on Rachel, and healed her womb.

She called her boy Joseph, and prayed for another,

Jacob asked Laban to let, him return to his father.

Laban agreed "God’s blessed me, because of you,

Name what money I owe, what you say I will do."

Jacob said "There’s one thing, give me black sheep,

And spotted goats as wages, the rest you can keep."

Laban said Okay it’s a deal, but that day had sons,

Remove all black and speckled, billy goats and rams.

Take them 3 days walk away, from the home farm,

So Jacob used a trick, he peeled, striped tree branch.

Put them in water troughs, where the flocks mated,

Then at birth, the lambs were spotted and speckled.

He separated them out, so built up their number,

Strong ewes he selected, weak ones Laban’s quota.

Jacob’s wealth grew, to many sheep and servants,

Plus large herds of goats, and donkeys and camels.

GENESIS 31.

Jacob Flees From Laban, Makes Treaty

Laban’s sons grumbled, of Jacob’s growing wealth,

Laban was less friendly, they were ready to fight.

Jacob called Leah and Rachel, to the field for a talk,

Your dad’s changed wages, 10 times for my work.

"But God has blessed me, and kept me from harm,

God made the flocks speckled, I saw it in a dream."

"He spoke to me at Bethel, at the pillar of stone,

Now he’s telling me, it’s time to return home."

His two wives responded, "With us that’s fine,

We don’t inherit here, we’re as foreign women."

"Laban wasted the dowry, you paid him too,

Go ahead and do, what God’s told you to do."

So Jacob loaded camels, with wives and children,

He took his livestock, with him away from Laban.

Laban was away at the time, shearing his sheep,

Rachel stole her dad’s idols, planning to keep.

Loaded with goods, they crossed the Euphrates,

After 3 days Laban heard, and he was not pleased.

He chased and reached Jacob, in the hills of Gilead,

God warned him in a dream, to hurt Jacob was bad.

He argued with Jacob, about leaving him secretly,

Of kidnapping his daughters, and no farewell party.

On top of all that he said, you’ve stolen my god’s"

I ran away afraid, that taking your girls you’d forbid.

"Search all our gear, whoever stole them will die,

All else I’ll return," Laban entered each tent to spy.

First Rachel and Leah’s maids, found nothing stolen,

In Rachel’s tent also, god’s in camel bag were hidden.

She told her dad, As it’s my period I can’t stand,

Laban looked - no result, Jacob angry being blamed.

"I worked hard for you stole zero, I’m no criminal,

Let our relatives judge us, any fault they can tell."

"20 years I served, no miscarriages or rams eaten,

I bore flock losses, when wild animals killed them."

"For animals lost or stolen, you made me pay,

I worked through cold nights, and heat of the day."

"I slaved 14 years for 2 wives, 6 more for sheep,

You’d send me away empty, with nothing to keep."

"But the God of Abraham, and Isaac was on my side,

So he came to you, In a dream you saw and heard."

Laban said "They’re my girls, sheep are mine too,

But let’s make a covenant, be friends me and you."

So Jacob and family gathered, stones set in a pile,

Sat down beside them, to eat the covenant meal.

They called it Witness heap, in Aramaic Hebrew,

Laban It’s Mizpah - a watchtower ’tween us two."

"God is a witness today. these stones a boundary,

I’ll not pass them to harm you, you’ll not harm me."

"I swear by the God, of your grandfather Abraham,

And my granddad Nahor, I’ll do your kin no harm."

Jacob also swore oath, sacrificed on the mountain,

Gave all a feast, to seal the treaty they’d maintain.

All slept on the mountain, and early next morning,

Laban kissed children and grandkids, ere departing.

GENESIS 32.

Jacob Returns Home, Wrestles with God

Going 2 angels met Jacob, Here God is he said,

Jacob sent envoys to meet Esau, conflict to avoid.

Greeting "Dear brother, from Jacob your servant,

I served uncle Laban, now rich good news I’ve sent."

"I’ve camels and donkeys, flocks of sheep and goats,

Lots of servants, envoys reported Esau you’ll meet."

He comes with 400 men, Jacob was terrified then,

He split the convoy, so Esau wouldn’t kill all of them.

Prayed "God of Abraham, Isaac, you told me return,

To my land and relatives, saying to you I’ll be kind."

"I don’t deserve your kindness, faithfulness and love,

I left with just a walking stick, now see all I have."

"Keep your promise O god, of many descendants,

Like sand on the sea shore, too many to count."

He had gifts for Esau, 200 sheep and goats, rams 20,

30 camels with young, 40 cows, 10 bulls, asses 30.

He made several herds, each managed by a servant,

They advanced toward Esau, their gifts to present.

Say when meeting said Jacob, "We’re Jacob’s men,

Master Esau they’re for you, Jacob’s coming soon."

The 2nd and 3rd groups, gave the same message,

Jacob thought if I’m humble, giving gifts I’ll appease.

That night he took 4 wives, and 11 sons over Jabbok,

With all his possessions, he camped with his stock.

A man came and wrestled with him, till it was dawn,

In a stalemate the man pushed, Jacob’s hip out of line.

He pled Let me go, Jacob said "Not till you bless me,

What’s your name? he said, Jacob it would be.

Your name’s now Israel, you fought God and men,

Jacob said "This is Peniel, the face of God I’ve seen.

He limped on from there, Israelis still avoid eating,

The hip tendon, to recall, this God - man meeting.

GENESIS 33.

Jacob and Esau make Peace

Jacob saw Esau coming, with his 400 armed men,

So among his 4 wives, he divided the 11 children.

The maid wives went first, Rachel and Joseph last,

Jacob went ahead and bowed, 7 times praying fast.

Esau ran met him, kissed, embraced him and cried,

Jacob weeping his wives, and children introduced.

The animals are a gift, to seal our friendship he said,

Esau But brother I’ve plenty, keep them instead.

No Jacob insisted, "My reward’s your friendly smile,

It’s like seeing God’s face," Esau took gifts meanwhile.

Esau offered to lead them, but Jacob went on slowly,

So animals and children, wouldn’t die prematurely.

Esau offered guards guides also, a brotherly gesture,

Jacob again refused, so then Esau returned to Sier.

Jacob at Succoth, built houses for self and animals,

They settled near Shechem, bought land there as well,

It cost 400 shekels of silver, there he set up a pillar,

Called it El-Elohi - Israel, dedicated to God our helper.

GENESIS 35.

Jacob Returns to Bethel, His 12 Sons, Reuben’s Sin

God told Jacob "Go to Bethel, build an altar there,

To the God who came to you, when you met Esau.

Jacob told his family, "Discard idols, don clean clothes,

We’re off to Bethel to thank God, for help he gives."

They gave Jacob idols, earrings, to bury under a tree,

Fear fell on the locals, so none attacked his family.

While staying at Bethel, Rebekkah’s old nurse died,

God met Jacob again, My name’s El-Shaddai he said.

"It means God Almighty, multiply become a nation,

Kings will be your descendants, your’s Abraham land."

Jacob set up another altar, on it poured oil and wine,

He named it Bethel, House of God is the meaning.

Enroute to Ephrath, Rachel full term hard laboured,

Bore a son named Benoni - son of sorrow and died.

Jacob changed it to Benjamin - son of my right hand,

He buried Rachel there, and set up an altar of stone.

At next camp Rueben, had intercourse with Bilhah,

Jacob wasn’t pleased, he now had 12 sons who were

Leah: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Isaachar, Zebulun,

And by Rachel his last born two, Joseph and Benjamin.

From Bilhah came Dan, Naphtali, and Zilpah’s sons

Gad and Asher all were born, while in Paddam-aram.

Jacob returned to his father, at Hebron and stayed,

Isaac died at 180, and by Esau and Jacob was buried.

GENESIS 36.

Esau’s Life and Family

Esau married 2 young women, Adah and Oholibamah,

Also his cousin Basemath, uncle Ishmael’s daughter.

Each had sons, Eliphaz, Reuel, Jeush, Jelam, Korah,

He took his family and flocks, to the hills of Seir.

There was lack of land, for him and Jacob in Canaan,

Son Eliphaz had sons, Teman Omar Zepho Gatam,

Also Kenaz all children of Adah, plus concubine Timna,

Was mother of Amalek, Reuel fathered Nahath, Zerah.

Shammah and Mizzah, via Oholibamah more progeny,

Meanwhile there were many, natives of the country.

They were organised in clans, inhabitants of Edom,

Esau lived with them, and kings ruled over them.

Bela, Jobab, Husham, Hadad, Samlah, Baal-hanan,

Shaul, Hadad were all kings, before Israel had a king.

GENESIS 37.

Joseph’s Dreams, Sold into Slavery

Joseph at 17, he kept sheep with his half-brothers,

And he told Jacob, some of their misdemeanours.

Jacob loved Joseph most, as the son of his old age,

One day a multicoloured robe, to Joseph he gave.

His brothers envied, one night Joseph had a dream,

Telling his brothers, increasing their hatred of him.

We were in a field, tying bundles of grain he said,

My bundle stood, others circled with bowed head.

So you think you’ll be king, over us they mocked,

In another dream sun, moon, stars came to worship.

He told this dream to his father, his dad scolded him,

Do you expect me, mother, brothers to bow down?

10 brothers were Jealous, his father sought meaning,

While brothers took sheep, to Shechem for pasturing.

Jacob sent Joseph to find, how they and flock got on,

From home in Hebron he went, but didn’t find them.

A man rerouted him to Dothan, and there they were,

Seeing him at a distance, said Here’s the dreamer!

"Let’s kill him, toss body in pit, say an animal ate him,

Then his dreams will die too," but Reuben told them.

Let’s not kill him, let’s throw him in an old cistern,

Ishmaelite camel caravan, came by with gum balm.

Judah suggested Let’s sell him, his brothers agreed,

It was a lesser crime, and 20 silver pieces they gained.

Joseph bound was taken, to Egypt, Reuben returned,

He’d hoped to rescue Joseph, but he’d disappeared!

He tore his clothes lamented, What’ll we do now?

They slew a goat and, Joseph’s coat bloodied to show.

At home Jacob recognised, Joseph’s robe at once,

A wild animal’s ate him, he didn’t stand a chance.

Jacob tore his clothes, in sackcloth mourned deeply,

Many tried to comfort, but none made him happy.

Let me die mourning, for my son he said and wept,

Traders sold Joseph, to Potiphar a captain in Egypt.

GENESIS 38.

Judah, Tamar and their Baby

Judah left home and stayed, with Hirah at Adullam,

He married a Canaanite woman, and they had 3 sons.

The firstborn Er married Tamar, he was bad and died,

Onan married her next, as Judah and the law decreed.

To produce an heir for his brother, but Onan resisted,

Intercourse he stopped, semen on the ground spilled.

Tamar and God were not happy, Onan soon died too,

Judah sent Tamar to parents, till son 3, Shelah grew.

Judah not wanting to risk, his last son did nothing,

When his wife died Judah and Hirah, went shearing.

Tamar hearing this, changed from widow’s clothes,

With a veil for disguise, she sat by road in harlot pose.

Judah stopped and hired her, for sex later that day,

Tamar asked him, How much for sex will you pay?

"I’ll send a young goat, of my flock Judah promised,

I need a guarantee she said, leave seal and cord.

And your walking stick. Later they went to bed,

Hirah went to give the goat, but no harlot found!

He asked locals but none, could help so he told Judah,

Let her keep items, Judah said - didn’t look further.

Meanwhile Tamar pregnant, wore a widow’s gown,

3 months later Judah knew, said Let her be burned.

Enroute to pyre she said, Father’s owner of these,

Judah his seal, belt and staff, recognised with ease.

She’s more righteous than me, said and her spared,

When it was time for the birth, twins were revealed.

A hand showed in cervix, midwife tied it with thread,

But hand withdrew, the other was born first instead.

So strange they opined, Perez was firstborn’s name,

Second was called Zerah, neither rose to any fame.

GENESIS 39.

Joseph in Potiphar’s House and Prison

God was with Joseph, when he was down on his luck,

He was sold as a slave, worked but never for a buck.

He served Potiphar well, the Lord blessed all he did,

He soon was overseer, and Potiphar’s house thrived.

He was always nervous, when Potiphar’s wife near.

He was young and handsome, she wanted an affair.

She asked Joseph to have sex with her, day after day,

He said It’s sin against God, Potiphar, sorry no way.

One day she arranged, they’d be alone in the house,

Caught him but he ran, she shouted with loud voice.

She had the corner of his garment, still in her hand,

Joseph had no counter evidence, on which to stand.

He tried to rape me she said, Potiphar was riled,

He threw Joseph out, with king’s men he was jailed.

But in prison the Lord, blessed Joseph as well,

He was soon put in charge, of every prison cell.

GENESIS 40.

Joseph Interprets 2 Prisoner’s Dreams

Pharaoh’s butler and baker, were incarcerated in jail,

One night they both dreampt and told Joseph the tale.

We need an interpreter, it seems there are none,

My God knows the meaning, so tell me the dreams.

The butler said "There were 3 grape clusters on vine,

I was filling Pharaoh’s cup, giving him his fine wine."

Joseph told him "You’ll be back, at work in 3 days flat,

In palace put in good word for me, can you do that?"

The baker encouraged, told Joseph dream he’d had,

Birds were eating the baskets, of bread on my head.

Alas reported Joseph, "it’s bad news I now see,

In 3 days you’ll be condemned, to hang on a tree.

For Pharaoh’s birthday bash, butler and baker left jail,

That day the dreams came true, a happy and sad tale.

GENESIS 41.

Pharaoh’s Dreams

After that 2 years elapsed, Pharaoh too had a dream,

Of seven fat cows, and seven more that were lean.

Skinny cows that night ate the fat cows, he awoke,

Next night he dreamed, of grain growing on a stalk.

7 good ears of grain there were, then 7 small and dry,

Poor swallowed the good, Pharaoh didn’t know why.

Next morn he called, all his magicians and wise men,

But none could interpret, the strange dream for him.

Pharaoh’s cupbearer recalled, young Joseph in Jail,

Had interpreted dreams, that came true without fail.

Joseph was called, washed, shaved, in new clothes,

Pharaoh Interpret for me, dreams no-one knows.

Joseph said "I can’t do it, but God knows all things,

Tell me the dream, I’ll share the meaning he brings."

So he listened to the tale, of the cows and the wheat,

Told Pharaoh 7 years of plenty, barns full, replete.

"But then a great famine, will come all over the land,

I recommend storing surpluses, that’s the best plan."

Pharaoh exclaimed "I don’t know, any wiser that you,

Implement the plan immediately, as my number two."

He gave Joseph a ring gold chain, fine robes and wife,

So age 30 Joseph experienced, a great change of life.

He toured land for 7 years, buying food by the tonne,

And stored it in cities, to use in the famine to come.

Year 8 fields dried up, and the famine soon spread,

To countries nearby, only Egypt could make bread.

All came to Joseph’s storehouses, to get their supply,

From Egypt and Canaan, and other countries nearby.

GENESIS 42.

Joseph’s Brothers go to Egypt

Now Jacob in Canaan, called his sons and said "Go,

Get to Egypt, buy food, come back, don’t be slow."

Arriving Joseph recognizing, his 10 brothers said,

You’re here spying defences, not to buy bread.

They said No sir we’re 12 sons, 1 died one’s home,

Joseph jailed them all, then bound Simeon alone.

Bring back the youngest, Joseph said to the nine,

Then I’ll know you’re not spies, and all will be fine.

Their sacks filled with grain, they set out on the road,

That night one discovered, money on top of his load!

Great fear was upon them, as on to Jacob they went,

For other sacks also had, all the money they’d spent.

Jacob laments "First was Joseph, now Simeon’s gone,

If you take Benjamin, I’m left to die here all alone.

But Reuben pled with him, "There’s no other way,

You kill my 2 sons, if young Benjamin goes astray."

GENESIS 43.

Return with Benjamin, A Palace Feast

Famine continued Jacob and co, ate all their grain,

It was time to buy more, down in Egypt again.

But without Benjamin, no food could be bought,

Judah swore he’d be safe, Jacob relented distraught.

They took double the shekels, and extra gifts too,

May God Almighty said dad, Go there with you.

Arriving in Egypt, they met Joseph once again,

He invited them to lunch, that day at his home.

They reported 1st visit, finding money in the sacks,

And offered to return it, plus more they’d give back.

It’s okay said Joseph’s steward, Simeon appeared,

Joseph came home then, and asked about their dad.

They replied He’s well, here’s Benjamin his lastborn,

Joseph exited to weep then, overcome with emotion.

A tasty meal was served, they were seated by age,

Benjamin was served 5 times as much, at each stage.

GENESIS 44.

Joseph’s Cup Taken, Judah pleads for Benjamin

That night sacks full, they were on the road home,

Money was in each sack, how none could explain.

In Benjamin’s sack Joseph put, his fine silver cup,

Next morning they left, Joseph’s stewards caught up.

They accused them of stealing, Joseph’s special thing,

So they opened all the sacks, and found everything.

All returned to the city, and begged Joseph for mercy,

Especially freedom for Benjamin, from hard slavery.

Judah said "I’ll be your slave, let Benjamin go home,

Or our old dear father will die, grey, sad and alone."

"I’ll stand as guarantor, and will honor my vow,

Please O Joseph let Benjamin, go home right now."

GENESIS 45.

Joseph Reveals his Identity and God’s Plan

Then Joseph sent all, of his servants away,

Before his brothers he said, A true story I’ll say.

"I am Joseph, the one you once sold as a slave,

But do not be frightened, I came here to save."

"You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good,

He wanted me here, to provide all with food."

"Return to our father, then bring him back here,

You can settle in Goshen, so we all can be near."

"Tell dad how I’ve prospered, I’m lord of the land,

For Pharoah has placed, everything under my hand."

Joseph wept, kissed, hugged, all his brothers in turn,

Pharaoh gave donkeys and carts, for their return.

They went showered in gifts, Benjamin most of all,

When they told their father, Jacob felt ten feet tall.

He rejoiced his son Joseph, was alive and not dead,

But was safe and prime minister, of Egypt instead.

GENESIS 46.

Jacob and Family Move to Egypt

Jacob set off for Egypt, with all his possessions,

At Beersheba he sacrificed, and had a vision.

God called Jacob, Jacob, He replied Here I am,

I’m God of your father, of Isaac and Abraham.

"Don’t be afraid of going to Egypt, you’ll be a nation,

I’ll go too and be with you, and bring you back again."

You’ll die in Egypt, son Joseph will close your eyes,

So Jacob went on to Egypt, with children and wives.

They took all their livestock, and all their belongings,

First Reuben with sons Hanoch, Pallu, Carmi, Hezron.

Simeon - Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar, Shual,

And Levi Gershon, Kohath, Merari, but that’s not all.

Judah had Shelah, Perez, Zerah, Er, Onan had died,

Issachar led Tola, Puah, Jashub, Shimron a young lad.

The sons of Zebulun were Sered, Elon and Jahleel,

All 33 were descendants, of Leah and Dinah a girl.

Gad, Asher, Joseph and Benjamin also brought kin,

Making a total of 70. who settled down in Goshen.

As they entered Egypt, Jacob sent Judah ahead,

To get orders from Joseph, re the new homestead.

Joseph came, met them, son and father embraced,

Jacob said Now I’ll die in peace, I’ve seen your face.

"I’ll report to Pharaoh, that you are all safely here,

Egyptians hate shepherds, but don’t live in fear.

"He’ll give you this area, to grow your animals well,

Tell him you’re his servants, and all will be well."

GENESIS 47.

Jacob Blesses Pharaoh, Joseph Manages Famine

Joseph reported to Pharaoh, with 5 of his brothers,

He asked What do you do? Sir we’re shepherds.

"There’s no grass in Canaan, because of the famine,

To settle in Goshen now, we ask your permission."

Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Choose any land you want,

They can manage my herds too, with farming talent."

Pharaoh met father Jacob, who blessed him then,

He said I’ve travelled earth, 130 years known pain.

But my ancestors lived longer, he blessed him again,

Jacob and family moved as fertile Goshen were given.

They were given food, as per the state allocation,

But the famine was so severe, people were starving.

By selling grain then, Joseph collected all the money,

In Canaan and Egypt, to put in Pharaoh’s treasury.

When their money was gone, they begged Joseph,

He said If you’ve no money, trade cattle and sheep.

So they swapped livestock then, for a year’s food,

Next year they had nothing, but their life and land.

So Joseph bought all the land, but kept people alive,

By the end of the famine, all the citizens were slaves.

The only land he didn’t buy, belonged to the priests,

They got a free food quota, so their land could keep.

Joseph said "I bought your land, but here’s seed,

Plant it grow crops, feed animals meet your needs."

Give Pharaoh 1/5, the rest is yours they exclaimed,

You saved our lives, ever since tax had been paid.

The people of Israel in Goshen, prospered, multiplied,

Jacob lived there 17 years, until aged 147 he died.

Ere death Jacob pled, Joseph’s hand on his thigh,

Don’t bury me in Egypt, but by ancestors when I die.

GENESIS 48.

Jacob Blesses his Children

Joseph heard dad was dying, he went with 2 sons,

Manasseh and Ephraim, for a final conversation.

Jacob said "God met me in Canaan, and blessed me,

You’ll be fruitful multiply, nation maker you’ll be."

"I’ll give you Canaan, as an everlasting possession,

Your 2 boys born in Egypt, will also be my sons."

"They will inherit like their uncles, but not future sons,

Rachel died in Canaan, on our journey to Bethlehem."

Jacob asked to bless Joseph’s boys, but blind by then,

Joseph brought them close, Ephraim by the left arm.

Manasseh was on the right, but Jacob crossed hands,

To bless Ephraim first, make older Manasseh second.

He blessed Joseph also, "May the God of Abraham,

And Isaac shepherd always, the one who redeems.

"Bless these boys to carry, the honour of the family,

May they fill the earth, be fruitful and multiply.

Joseph his dad’s crossed hands, tried to reverse,

Jacob said Ephraim will be greater, Manasseh less.

"In future people will bless, by name say may God,

Give you prosperity, as Ephraim and Manasseh had."

To Joseph said, "God be with you, return to Canaan,

Of land I won in war, you’ll have an extra portion."

GENESIS 49.

Jacob Blesses his Sons

Jacob gathered his sons, to disclose their destiny,

Reuben you’re my firstborn, child of my virility.

You’re first in rank and power, but like a storm,

You’ll not stay first, bedding my wife brought shame."

"Simeon and Levi are the same, often violent, angry,

They killed men, hurt oxen, as nomads they’ll pay."

"Judah brothers will praise you, bow before you,

You’ll conquer enemies, like a lion claim your due."

"Your descendants will rule, live in luxury and safety,

Zebulun will have a boat harbour, and live by the sea."

"Issachar is a strong donkey, he’ll be a hard worker,

Make the land produce much, blest by his creator."

"Dan will govern his people, as a snake with cunning,

Gad will be attacked, chase foes when retreating."

"Asher will be rich, make and eat the food of kings,

Naphtali is like a free doe, with many fine fawns."

"Joseph is a wild donkey’s foal, archers attack him,

But his bow is strong, God with help and