Reuben, you are my firstborn, my strength, the first sign of my manhood — excelling in honor, excelling in power.
In context
1Jacob called for his sons and said, “Gather around, so I can tell you what is to happen to you in the days to come. 2Assemble and listen, sons of Jacob; listen to Israel, your father. 3Reuben, you are my firstborn, my strength, the first sign of my manhood — excelling in honor, excelling in power. 4Turbulent as water, you will no longer excel, for you climbed into your father’s bed and defiled it — you climbed onto my couch. 5Simeon and Levi are brothers — their swords are weapons of violence.
