What is an Ephraimite in the Bible?

An Ephraimite is a member of the Israelite tribe of Ephraim, one of the twelve tribes of Israel descended from Joseph's son Ephraim (Genesis 48:5). The term is used throughout the Old Testament to identify people from this prominent northern tribe.

Why was the tribe of Ephraim so significant?

Ephraim became one of the largest and most influential tribes, often representing the entire northern kingdom of Israel (Isaiah 7:2, 17). It received a central, fertile territory in Canaan and its descendants included Joshua, the leader who succeeded Moses (Numbers 13:8).

Where are Ephraimites mentioned in the Bible?

Ephraimites are mentioned in key stories like the war with the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 12:1-6) and in prophetic books addressing the northern kingdom (Hosea 5:3, 9:3-16). A foundational reference is in the book of Joshua detailing their territorial inheritance (Joshua 16:1-10).

EncyclopediaEphraimite

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Ephraimite

Ephraimite e'-fra-im-it ('ephrayim; singular 'ephrathi): A member of the tribe of Ephraim (Jos 16:10, etc.). ⇒See a list of verses on EPHRAIMITES in the Bible. See also EPHRATHITE. ⇒See also the McClintock and Strong Biblical Cyclopedia.

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