Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:
Part of Jacob's blessing to his sons.
Genesis 49:3
King James Version (public domain)
Traditionally attributed to Moses · c. 13th century BC · The Pentateuch — Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy — is traditionally attributed to him
Context
1And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.
2Gather yourselves together, and hear, ye sons of Jacob; and hearken unto Israel your father.
3Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:
4Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father’s bed; then defiledst thou it: he went up to my couch.
5Simeon and Levi are brethren; instruments of cruelty are in their habitations.