I. Introduction
A. Transition from the events in Genesis 48, specifically Jacob’s blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh and his final prophecies
B. Introduction to the narrative of Jacob’s blessings and prophecies for his twelve sons in Genesis 49
II. Jacob’s Call to His Sons
A. Verses 1-2: Jacob gathers his sons together and tells them to listen as he prophesies about their future
B. Verse 28: Jacob’s final words, stating that he is blessing his sons and prophesying about their individual destinies
III. Reuben, Simeon, and Levi
A. Verses 3-4: Jacob reproaches Reuben for his instability and lack of honor
B. Verses 5-7: Jacob rebukes Simeon and Levi for their violence and anger, cursing their future inheritance
IV. Judah
A. Verses 8-12: Jacob praises Judah, predicting his leadership and the future reign of his descendants, including the coming of the Messiah
V. Zebulun, Issachar, Dan, Gad, Asher, Naphtali
A. Verses 13-15: Jacob foresees Zebulun’s dwelling near the sea, benefiting from commerce
B. Verses 14-15: Jacob portrays Issachar as a strong laborer subject to servitude
C. Verses 16-18: Jacob characterizes Dan as a judge and a viper biting the heels
D. Verses 19-20: Jacob speaks of Gad’s future battles and victories
E. Verses 20-21: Jacob envisions Asher enjoying rich and plentiful produce
F. Verses 21: Jacob describes Naphtali as a deer freely released to bear beautiful words
VI. Joseph and Benjamin
A. Verses 22-26: Jacob hails Joseph as a fruitful bough, blessed by God with blessings of the heavens and the earth
B. Verse 27: Jacob praises Benjamin as a ravenous wolf that will devour his enemies
VII. Conclusion
A. Summary of the events in Genesis 49
B. Transition to the subsequent chapters and the further development of the narrative
Note: This outline provides a general structure of Genesis 49, focusing on Jacob’s blessings and prophecies for his twelve sons. It highlights the individual destinies and characteristics Jacob ascribes to each son, including both blessings and rebukes. The actual chapter contains additional details, poetic language, and prophetic insights that are not included in this outline.