Numbers 1:10
Of the children of Joseph: of Ephraim; Elishama the son of Ammihud: of Manasseh; Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.
Original Language Analysis
בֶּן
Of the children
H1121
בֶּן
Of the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לְאֶפְרַ֕יִם
of Ephraim
H669
לְאֶפְרַ֕יִם
of Ephraim
Strong's:
H669
Word #:
3 of 10
ephrajim, a son of joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
בֶּן
Of the children
H1121
בֶּן
Of the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לִמְנַשֶּׁ֕ה
of Manasseh
H4519
לִמְנַשֶּׁ֕ה
of Manasseh
Strong's:
H4519
Word #:
7 of 10
menashsheh, a grandson of jacob, also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
Historical Context
Jacob adopted Joseph's sons as his own (Genesis 48:5), effectively giving Joseph a double inheritance. This occurred because of Joseph's role in preserving Israel during the Egyptian famine and established a pattern where Ephraim and Manasseh counted as separate tribes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Joseph's double portion through his sons illustrate the principle that God rewards faithfulness, even if not always in expected ways?
- What does the fulfillment of Jacob's blessing centuries later teach us about God's faithfulness to His promises?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Joseph's division into Ephraim and Manasseh fulfills Jacob's prophetic blessing (Genesis 48), whereby Joseph received a double portion through his two sons. This special treatment reflects Joseph's faithfulness and God's providential preservation of Israel through him during the famine. The continued distinction between Joseph's sons demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises across generations, even in matters of tribal organization.