Ephraim

Ephraim was the second son of Joseph, born to him in Egypt by his wife Asenath (Gen.41.52). He and his older brother Manasseh were adopted by Israel (or 'Jacob') and blessed, with Ephraim receiving the greater blessing (Gen.48). Ephraim's descendants formed one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and they were often grouped with the tribe of Manasseh under the collective name "Joseph" (Num.1.32,33; 26.28,35,37).

The tribe of Ephraim settled in the central region of Canaan (Jos.16.4,5,8,9,10) and played a significant role throughout Israel's history. They were known for their military prowess (Jdg.5.14; Psa.78.9) and produced several notable leaders, including Joshua (Num.13.8), Abdon (Jdg.12.15), and Samuel (1Sa.1.1). However, they also exhibited pride and a rebellious spirit at times (Jdg.8.1,2; 12.1; 2Sa.20.21).

Ephraim, along with the other northern tribes, separated from Judah after Solomon's reign and formed the northern kingdom of Israel (1Ki.12.25). The prophets often addressed Ephraim, warning them of judgment for their idolatry and unfaithfulness (Isa.7.2,5,8,9; Jer.31.18,20; Hos.4.17; 5). However, there were also promises of restoration and blessing (Jer.31.6,9; Ezk.37.16,19).

In the New Testament, Ephraim is mentioned in the context of Jesus withdrawing to a village called Ephraim before his final entry into Jerusalem (Jdg.12.6; 1Ch.12.30; 27.20; 2Ch.25.7; Psa.78.9; 2Ch.13.19; 1Ki.11.26; 1Sa.1.1).