Tribe Ephraim

Ephraim was the second born son to Joseph. His older brother's name was Manasseh. Their mother was an Egyptian named Asenath. She was the daughter of an Egyptian priest of On. In the chronicles of the tribes, Ephraim takes precedence over Manasseh in all matters, such as the order of marching, the consecration gifts for the Tabernacle, and the order of the allocation of territory. When the Kingdom of Israel divided about 2900 years ago, the northern portion was often referred to by the name of Ephraim. Jacob blessed Ephraim saying; 'However, his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his descendants shall become a multitude of nations. And he blessed them that day, saying, 'By you Israel shall pronounce blessing, saying, 'May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh!' Thus he put Ephraim before Manasseh'.