Topical Bible: Tribe of Ephraim: Descended from Joseph's Second Son Adopted by Jacob

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The Tribe of Ephraim holds a significant place in the history of Israel, being one of the twelve tribes that descended from the sons of Jacob. Ephraim was the second son of Joseph, born to him in Egypt by Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On (Genesis 41:50-52). Despite being the younger brother of Manasseh, Ephraim received a prominent blessing from his grandfather Jacob, who adopted both Ephraim and Manasseh as his own sons, thus granting them equal status with Jacob's direct sons (Genesis 48:5).

Adoption and Blessing by Jacob

Jacob's adoption of Ephraim and Manasseh is a pivotal moment, as it effectively elevates Joseph's lineage to a double portion among the tribes of Israel. In Genesis 48:14-20, Jacob intentionally crosses his hands to place his right hand on Ephraim's head, despite Joseph's attempt to correct him, indicating that Ephraim, though younger, would become greater than Manasseh. Jacob declares, "His younger brother will be greater than he, and his descendants will become a multitude of nations" (Genesis 48:19). This blessing set the stage for Ephraim's future prominence.

Territory and Influence

The territory allotted to the Tribe of Ephraim was centrally located in the land of Canaan, bordered by the tribes of Manasseh to the north and Benjamin to the south (Joshua 16:5-10). This strategic location contributed to Ephraim's influence in the political and spiritual life of Israel. The city of Shiloh, situated within Ephraim's territory, became the religious center where the Tabernacle was set up and remained for many years (Joshua 18:1).

Ephraim's prominence is further underscored by its association with key biblical figures and events. Joshua, the successor of Moses and a central figure in the conquest of Canaan, was from the tribe of Ephraim (Numbers 13:8). His leadership solidified Ephraim's status as a leading tribe in Israel.

Role in the Divided Kingdom

The Tribe of Ephraim played a crucial role during the period of the divided kingdom. After the death of Solomon, the northern kingdom of Israel, often referred to as "Ephraim" due to the tribe's dominance, broke away from the southern kingdom of Judah (1 Kings 11:26-12:33). Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom, was an Ephraimite (1 Kings 11:26). The prophets frequently used "Ephraim" as a synonym for the northern kingdom, highlighting its representative status (Isaiah 7:2, Hosea 5:3).

Prophetic Significance

The prophets often addressed Ephraim in their messages, both in terms of judgment and hope. Hosea, in particular, speaks extensively about Ephraim, lamenting its idolatry and calling for repentance (Hosea 4:17, 6:4). Despite the tribe's waywardness, prophetic literature also holds out hope for Ephraim's restoration. Jeremiah 31:20 expresses God's enduring love for Ephraim, saying, "Is not Ephraim My dear son, the child in whom I delight? Though I often speak against him, I still remember him. Therefore My heart yearns for him; I have great compassion for him" .

Legacy

The legacy of the Tribe of Ephraim is multifaceted, marked by its early prominence, its central role in the history of Israel, and its symbolic representation of the northern kingdom. Despite periods of rebellion and judgment, the biblical narrative holds out hope for Ephraim's redemption and restoration, reflecting the broader themes of God's covenant faithfulness and mercy.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 41:52
And the name of the second called he Ephraim: For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 48:5
And now your two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, which were born to you in the land of Egypt before I came to you into Egypt, are mine; as Reuben and Simeon, they shall be mine.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Immaculate Conception
... were still alive were celebrating with their tribe a three ... the presence of Our Lord
in Ephraim near Jericho ... a second husband, from whom Joachim was descended. ...
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