Thematic Bible: Could be forfeited by misconduct
Thematic Bible
the First-born » Privileges of » Could be forfeited by misconduct
Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might and the beginning of my strength, outstanding in dignity, outstanding in power. You are destructive like water and will not excel, for you got on your father's bed, then you defiled it -- he got on my couch!
The sons of Reuben, Israel's firstborn -- (Now he was the firstborn, but when he defiled his father's bed, his rights as firstborn were given to the sons of Joseph, Israel's son. So Reuben is not listed as firstborn in the genealogical records.
Judah, your brothers will praise you. Your hand will be on the neck of your enemies, your father's sons will bow down before you.