Genesis 46:20

Manasseh and Ephraim were born to Joseph in the land of Egypt by Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On.

Study Bible

Manasseh and Ephraim
These names are significant in the history of Israel. Manasseh means "causing to forget," reflecting Joseph's desire to forget his hardships and his family’s betrayal (Genesis 41:51). Ephraim means "fruitful," signifying Joseph's prosperity in Egypt (Genesis 41:52). These names are prophetic, as both tribes would play crucial roles in Israel's history. Manasseh and Ephraim would become two of the twelve tribes of Israel, with Ephraim often representing the northern kingdom in prophetic literature.

were born to Joseph
Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to power in Egypt. His account is one of redemption and divine providence. The birth of his sons in Egypt signifies the continuation of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, even in a foreign land. Joseph's faithfulness amidst trials is a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

in the land of Egypt
Egypt, a place of both refuge and bondage for the Israelites, is central to the narrative of Genesis and Exodus. Joseph's presence in Egypt was part of God's plan to preserve His people during a famine. This setting foreshadows the Israelites' eventual enslavement and the subsequent Exodus, a pivotal event in their history. Egypt represents both the world’s allure and the place of God's deliverance.

by Asenath
Asenath, Joseph's wife, was an Egyptian woman given to him by Pharaoh. Her name means "belonging to Neith," an Egyptian goddess, indicating her pagan background. Despite this, her marriage to Joseph symbolizes the integration of different cultures under God's providence. It also highlights the theme of God's people living in and influencing a foreign culture without losing their identity.

daughter of Potiphera
Potiphera, meaning "he whom Ra has given," was a priest in Egypt. His position indicates the high status Joseph attained in Egyptian society. This connection to Egyptian religion and power structures underscores the remarkable nature of Joseph's rise from slavery to leadership, illustrating God's ability to elevate His people in any circumstance.

priest of On
On, also known as Heliopolis, was a major center of worship for the sun god Ra. The mention of On emphasizes the religious and cultural environment in which Joseph lived. Despite being surrounded by idolatry, Joseph maintained his faith in the God of Israel. This serves as an encouragement for believers to remain steadfast in their faith, regardless of their surroundings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob and Rachel, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. His life is a testament to God's providence and faithfulness.

2. Manasseh and Ephraim
The two sons of Joseph, born in Egypt. Their names and lives carry significant meaning, as they are later adopted by Jacob and become two of the tribes of Israel.

3. Asenath
The Egyptian wife of Joseph, given to him by Pharaoh. She is the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, indicating a connection to Egyptian nobility and religion.

4. Potiphera
The priest of On, an Egyptian city known for its worship of the sun god Ra. His position suggests a high status in Egyptian society.

5. Egypt
The land where Joseph rose to power and where his family eventually settled during the famine. It serves as a place of both refuge and future bondage for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite Joseph's separation from his family and his integration into Egyptian society, God orchestrates events to fulfill His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This reminds us that God is in control of our family situations and can work through them for His purposes.

Cultural Integration and Faithfulness
Joseph's marriage to Asenath and the birth of his sons in Egypt show the balance between cultural integration and maintaining faithfulness to God. Believers today can learn to navigate cultural contexts while staying true to their faith.

Legacy and Inheritance
The adoption of Manasseh and Ephraim by Jacob signifies the importance of spiritual legacy and inheritance. We are encouraged to consider the spiritual heritage we are passing on to future generations.

God's Faithfulness Across Generations
The account of Joseph and his sons is a testament to God's faithfulness across generations. It encourages us to trust in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them in His timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's experience in Egypt demonstrate God's sovereignty and faithfulness in difficult circumstances?

2. In what ways can we, like Joseph, maintain our faith and integrity while living in a culture that may not share our beliefs?

3. What lessons can we learn from the adoption of Manasseh and Ephraim regarding spiritual legacy and inheritance?

4. How does the account of Joseph and his family encourage us to trust in God's promises, even when they seem delayed or impossible?

5. How can we apply the principles of cultural integration and faithfulness in our own lives, ensuring that we remain true to our faith while engaging with the world around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and his marriage to Asenath, setting the stage for the birth of Manasseh and Ephraim.

Genesis 48
Jacob adopts Manasseh and Ephraim as his own sons, giving them a special blessing and ensuring their place among the tribes of Israel.

Joshua 14-17
These chapters describe the allotment of land to the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim, highlighting their significance in the history of Israel.

1 Chronicles 5
This passage recounts the genealogy of the tribes, including Manasseh and Ephraim, emphasizing their role in the lineage of Israel.