Of the Scutcheons of the Tribes of Israel.
We will not pass over the Scutcheons of the Tribes of _Israel_, as they are usually described in the Maps of _Canaan_ and several other pieces; generally conceived to be the proper coats, and distinctive badges of their several Tribes. So _Reuben_ is conceived to bear three Bars wave, _Judah_ a Lyon Rampant, _Dan_ a Serpent nowed, _Simeon_ a sword inpale the point erected, etc. The ground whereof is the last Benediction of _Jacob_[SN: Gen. 49.], wherein he respectively draweth comparisons from things here represented.
Now herein although we allow a considerable measure of truth, yet whether as they are usually described, these were the proper cognizances, and coat-arms of the Tribes; whether in this manner applyed, and upon the grounds presumed, material doubts remain.
For first, They are not strictly made out, from the Prophetical blessing of _Jacob_; for _Simeon_ and _Levi_ have distinct coats, that is, a Sword, and the two Tables, yet are they by _Jacob_ included in one Prophesie, _Simeon_ and _Levi_ are brethren, Instruments of cruelties are in their habitations. So _Joseph_ beareth an Ox, whereof notwithstanding there is no mention in this Prophesie; for therein it is said _Joseph_ is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; by which repitition are intimated the two Tribes descending from him, _Ephraim_ and _Manasses_; whereof notwithstanding _Ephraim_ only beareth an Ox: True it is, that many years after in the benediction of _Moses_, it is said of _Joseph_[SN: Deut. 33.], His glory is like the firstlings of his Bullock: and so we may concede, what _Vossius_ learnedly declareth, that the _Ãgyptians_ represented _Joseph_, in the Symbole of an Ox; for thereby was best implied the dream of _Pharoah_, which he interpreted, the benefit by Agriculture, and provident provision of corn which he performed; and therefore did _Serapis_ bear a bushel upon his head.
Again, If we take these two benedictions together, the resemblances are not appropriate, and _Moses_ therein conforms not unto _Jacob_: for that which in the Prophesie of _Jacob_ is appropriated unto one, is in the blessing of _Moses_ made common unto others. So whereas _Judah_ is compared unto a Lion by _Jacob_, _Judah_ is a Lions whelp, the same is applied unto _Dan_ by _Moses_, _Dan_ is a Lions whelp, he shall leap from _Bashan_, and also unto _Gad_; he dwelleth as a Lion.