en_tn/gen/48/12.md

between Israel's knees

When Joseph placed his sons on Israel's lap or knees it was a sign that Israel was adopting them. This gave the children special inheritance rights from Jacob. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction)

then he bowed with his face to the earth

Joseph bowed down to show honor to his father. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction)