Ephraim and Manasseh are the two sons of Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob (Israel) and his wife Rachel. Their account and significance are rooted deeply in the history of Israel, as they became the progenitors of two of the tribes of Israel. The narrative of Ephraim and Manasseh is primarily found in the Book of Genesis and is further elaborated in other parts of the Old Testament.

Birth and Adoption:
Ephraim and Manasseh were born to Joseph and his Egyptian wife, Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On (Genesis 41:50-52). Manasseh was the firstborn, and Ephraim was the younger. Their names hold significant meanings: Manasseh means "God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household," while Ephraim means "God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction."

In Genesis 48, Jacob adopts Ephraim and Manasseh as his own sons, elevating them to the status of his direct heirs alongside his other sons. This adoption is significant as it effectively grants Joseph a double portion of inheritance, a privilege usually reserved for the firstborn. Jacob's blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh is a pivotal moment: "But Israel stretched out his right hand and put it on Ephraim’s head, though he was the younger, and crossing his arms, he put his left hand on Manasseh’s head, although Manasseh was the firstborn" (Genesis 48:14). Jacob intentionally gives the greater blessing to Ephraim, prophesying that he would become greater than Manasseh.

Tribal Significance:
The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh are often collectively referred to as the "house of Joseph." They played significant roles in the history of Israel. The tribe of Ephraim became one of the most prominent tribes, often representing the northern kingdom of Israel. Joshua, the leader who succeeded Moses and led the Israelites into the Promised Land, was from the tribe of Ephraim (Numbers 13:8).

Manasseh, on the other hand, was divided into two half-tribes, with one portion settling east of the Jordan River and the other west. This division is noted in the allocation of land among the tribes of Israel (Joshua 13:29-31; 17:1-18).

Prophetic and Historical Context:
Throughout the Old Testament, Ephraim is frequently mentioned in prophetic literature. The prophets often use Ephraim as a representative of the northern kingdom, especially in the context of judgment and calls for repentance. Hosea, for instance, frequently addresses Ephraim in his prophecies, highlighting the tribe's waywardness and God's call for their return (Hosea 4:17; 5:3).

Despite their initial prominence, both tribes faced decline and judgment due to idolatry and disobedience. The Assyrian conquest led to the dispersion of the northern tribes, including Ephraim and Manasseh, fulfilling the prophetic warnings given by the prophets.

Legacy:
The legacy of Ephraim and Manasseh is multifaceted. They are remembered as part of the twelve tribes of Israel, with their names inscribed on the gates of the New Jerusalem in the vision of Revelation (Revelation 21:12). Their account is a testament to God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises, as well as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from His commandments.