[kosta50]

Generally speaking; there are some exceptions both here and in European royal lines - once the legitimate heirs are either non existent or decline/abdicate, or are adopted to legitimacy.

Maybe this will help.

Normally correct; however in many cases adoptive fathers legitimize their adopted sons.

Not in this case. As I said earlier, Joseph's lineage was not acceptable; it was cursed. Consider the Jewish sources. They are down to earth.

[MarkBsnr]

Fascinating link; I must accept its validity based upon its own merit. I did not know Joseph’s line was cursed. Many thanks.