Manasseh (tribe)
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The Tribe of Joseph holds a unique place in the history and structure of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, owing to the remarkable life of Joseph, son of Jacob (also known as Israel), and his division into two distinct tribes—Ephraim and Manasseh. This division reflects both the blessings and complex inheritance patterns in ancient Hebrew society.[1]
Who Was Joseph?
Joseph was the 11th son of Jacob and the firstborn of Rachel, his favored wife. His story is extensively detailed in the Book of Genesis (chapters 37–50). Joseph is best known for being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, rising to power in Egypt, and eventually saving his family during a time of famine. His forgiveness and administrative prowess are celebrated as a model of divine providence and moral integrity.
Joseph’s Tribal Legacy
Unlike his brothers, Joseph did not have a tribe named directly after him. Instead, his two sons—Ephraim and Manasseh, whom he had with Asenath, daughter of an Egyptian priest—were adopted by Jacob as his own. This act effectively granted Joseph a double portion in Israel's tribal allotments.[2]
Learn more about this adoption in Genesis 48:5–6: Jacob Adopts Ephraim and Manasseh.
Ephraim and Manasseh
Together, Ephraim and Manasseh are often referred to as the "half-tribes of Joseph." However, in practice, they functioned as two full tribes, making up for the absence of a tribe named after Joseph. This division kept the number of tribes at twelve, especially when Levi was excluded from land allotments due to their priestly role.[3]
- Ephraim became a dominant tribe in the central hill country of Canaan and often represented the northern kingdom of Israel as a whole (see Isaiah 7:2). Ephraim’s prominence in scripture is a key feature of post-settlement Israel.
- Manasseh received a divided inheritance: one portion east of the Jordan River and another west of it, highlighting the tribe’s geographical spread. This also created administrative and military complexities.
Role in Biblical History
The tribes of Joseph, especially Ephraim, played a significant political and religious role during the period of the Judges and the Monarchy. Ephraim was home to Shiloh, where the Tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant resided before the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.
In the time of the Divided Monarchy, Ephraim was central to the northern kingdom of Israel and produced Jeroboam I, the first king of the north after the split with Judah. This division deepened the political and religious schism in ancient Israel.
Joseph in Later Tradition
In Jewish tradition, the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh are counted separately, except when Levi is included. In Christian eschatology, particularly in the Book of Revelation, Joseph appears in listings of the twelve tribes—sometimes representing his two sons together under his name (see Revelation 7:8).
Additionally, the blessing of Joseph in Deuteronomy 33:13–17 reflects the agricultural and territorial prosperity he and his descendants were believed to inherit.
Modern Identity and Interpretation
Some modern religious groups and scholars interpret the tribes of Joseph, especially Ephraim, in symbolic or prophetic terms, often relating them to "lost tribes" or assigning them a role in end-time prophecy. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) places significant emphasis on Joseph’s lineage, claiming descent from Ephraim and considering it central to their missionary work.
Conclusion
The tribe of Joseph, though not directly named as such in land allotments, lives on through Ephraim and Manasseh, who together shaped the geopolitical and religious contours of ancient Israel. Joseph’s legacy—rooted in resilience, leadership, and divine favor—remains a powerful symbol of survival and spiritual promise across Judaism, Christianity, and beyond.[4]
Manasseh (tribe) Media
Territory allotted to the twelve tribes of Israel; Manasseh was given the large green-yellow area
An alternative reconstruction makes the western and eastern territories discontinuous (1852 map).
References
- ↑ "Bible Gateway passage: Genesis 37-44 - New International Version". Bible Gateway. Retrieved 2025-08-03.
- ↑ "Bible Gateway passage: Genesis 48:5-6 - New International Version". Bible Gateway. Retrieved 2025-08-03.
- ↑ "Bible Gateway passage: Isaiah 7:2 - New International Version". Bible Gateway. Retrieved 2025-08-03.
- ↑ "Ephraim". www.churchofjesuschrist.org. Retrieved 2025-08-03.