Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
S. Michael Houdmann
Supporter
Technically, there is no tribe of Joseph. Instead, Joseph received a "double blessing," and his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, each became his own tribe (Genesis 48; Joshua 14:4; Ezekiel 47:13). T...
Login or Sign Up to view the rest of this answer.
Bruce Lyon
Supporter
What should we learn from the tribe of Joseph? 1. Historical and Family Context Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, were born in Egypt to Joseph and Asenath. Jacob/Israel later adopted them as his own sons: “Ephraim and Manasseh shall be mine, as Reuben and Simeon are mine.” (Genesis 48:5) This effectively elevated them to tribal status in Israel. Gave Joseph a “double portion” inheritance through two tribes instead of one. 2. Jacob’s Adoption and Prophetic Blessing (Genesis 48) The Crossing of Hands Jacob intentionally crossed his hands: Right hand → Ephraim (younger) Left hand → Manasseh (older) Joseph objected because Manasseh was firstborn, but Jacob insisted. Core Prophecy Jacob declared: Manasseh would become: “a people,” “great.” Ephraim would become greater than Manasseh “a commonwealth of nations” until the end of the 18th century. A key phrase: “his seed shall become a commonwealth of nations.” (Hebrew: melo ha-goyim) Assyrian Exile and the “Lost Tribes:” Around 722 BCE: Northern Israel fell to Assyria. Many tribes associated with Ephraim and Manasseh were dispersed. This led to later traditions about the “Lost Ten Tribes." Scattered among nations Future regathering Ephrem and Mennassah at present: Ephraim = British peoples, including the Commonwealth of Nations. Until the end of the 18th century, Britain was the most powerful nation on earth, which included the Commonwealth of Nations. Manasseh = United States of America Key Themes Summarized Ephraim Associated with: numerical greatness leadership a northern kingdom The Commonwealth of Nations (often called the Commonwealth) is an association of 56 member states, most of which are former territories of the British Empire. Formerly known as the "British Commonwealth of Nations," it evolved in 1949 to reflect a voluntary union of independent sovereign states. Manasseh = United States of America Associated with: greatness territorial expansion strength Since World War Two Mannasah = the United States of America has become the most powerful nation in the world.
Jeffrey Johnson
Supporter
What should we learn from the tribe of Joseph? The tribe of Joseph teaches how God honours faithfulness, transforms hardship into purpose, and uses individuals and families to shape the future of His people. Joseph's life laid the foundation, and his sons—Ephraim and Manasseh—continued that legacy in ways that reveal lessons about character, responsibility, and spiritual influence. Integrity and Faithfulness Joseph's story demonstrates the strength of integrity. Though he faced betrayal, slavery, false accusation, and imprisonment, he remained committed to God. His private faithfulness prepared him for public responsibility, and his rise in Egypt flowed from a life shaped by trust rather than circumstance. Redemption Through Suffering Joseph's hardships positioned him to save many lives during the famine. His descendants inherited the testimony that God can turn adversity into blessing. Their story encourages us to see difficulties as places where God can work for good. Blessing and Responsibility Ephraim and Manasseh received significant portions of land and influence. Ephraim became known for leadership, while Manasseh's territory stretched across both sides of the Jordan. Their inheritance shows that privilege is meant for service, not self‑importance. The Danger of Complacency Despite its strength, Ephraim sometimes drifted from God's commands. This warns that past blessings do not replace present obedience. A strong beginning must be matched by continued faithfulness. Reconciliation and Peace Joseph forgave his brothers and restored unity to his family. His descendants carried the memory of that reconciliation. Their legacy encourages us to pursue peace and allow God to heal broken relationships. Confidence in God's Promises Joseph asked that his bones be carried out of Egypt when God delivered His people. His descendants honoured that request, showing loyalty to God's word across generations. Their example teaches us to hold firmly to God's promises and pass that confidence forward. Ordinary People, Extraordinary Purpose Joseph began as a shepherd boy, yet God raised him to influence nations. His descendants became central to Israel's identity. Lessons from the Tribe of Joseph The tribe of Joseph shows that God honours faithfulness and can turn hardship into purpose. Their legacy calls us to character, obedience, and hope—qualities through which God shapes lives for His purposes. Their story reminds us that God can use ordinary lives in ways we cannot foresee.
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible