The Practice and Meaning of Declaring Lineage in Patriarchal Blessings

Abstract: In this paper, I show that declarations of lineage in patriarchal blessings have, since the earliest days of the Restoration, evolved in terms of frequency of inclusion, which tribal lineages predominate, and understanding of the meaning of the declaration. I argue for a non-literal understanding consistent with scripture and science, but posit that these declarations have deep and important significance in connection with the gathering of Israel.