EPHRAIM AND MANASSEH – Role Reversal Refuted!
“And Jacob said unto Joseph. .. thy two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, which were born unto thee in the land of Egypt before I came unto thee into Egypt, are mine; as Reuben and Simeon, they shall be mine… And Joseph took them both, Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel’s left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel’s right hand, and brought them near unto him. And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon Ephraim’s head, who was the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh’s head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh was the firstborn. And he blessed Joseph, and said, God, before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac did walk, the God which fed me all my life long unto this day, The Angel which redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and let my name be named on them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth. And when Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand upon the head of Ephraim, it displeased him: and he held up his father’s hand, to remove it from Ephraim’s head unto Manasseh’s head And Joseph said unto his father, Not so, my father:for this is the firstbom; put thyrighthand upon his head. And his father refused, and said, I know it,my son, I know it: he also shall become a people, and he also shall be great:but truly his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his seed shall become a multitude of nations.And he blessed them thatday, saying, In thee shall Israel bless, saying, God make thee as Ephraim and as Manasseh: and he set Ephraim before Manasseh.” – (GENESIS 48:3-20)
To fully appreciate the significance of the blessing of Joseph’s two sons, we need to understand some background with regard to both history and prophecy in relation to Israel. The promises to the tribes of Israel were specifically reserved for the “LAST DAYS”, or “CHRISTIAN ERA” – Genesis 49:1, Hebrews 1:1,2. The rebellion of the ten tribes in the North, against the Throne of David, in the time of Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, is foretold in 1 Kings 11:9-13, and 29-32. This northern ten-tribe division retained the name ISRAEL.The tribe of Judah, in the South, were granted the loyal support of the tribe of Benjamin, and were collectively known as JUDAH. Understanding this division of ISRAEL and JUDAH is essential, in order to rightly apply prophecy. 2 Kings 17 gives a summary of how, because of sin, God took ten-tribe ISRAEL away from the throne of Judah, and eventually caused them to go into exile in Assyria. They did not return! The fact is,both Ezra and Nehemiah record that only 42,360 of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, returned to Judea from exile in Babylon, together with a “mixed multitude” see Ezra 2:64, Nehemiah 7:66, 13:3. From these, the Jews of Jesus’ day descended. It is clear therefore, that to identify ISRAEL in both history and prophecy we have to distinguish Israel from the Jews. It was prophesied that ISRAEL would lose their identity, God referring to them as “not my people”, in other words, a people who would not be identified as Israel (Hosea 1:10, 2:23), yet we may identify Israel by the destiny they were to fulfil! I Chronicles 5:1 tells us the “BIRTHRIGHT was given unto the SONS OF JOSEPH”. This means that, through the descendants of the SONS OF JOSEPH, God would fulfil the great promises of Israel’s greatness! That greatness included the promise given to Jacob in Genesis 35:11:
“I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply: a NATION and a COMPANY OF NATIONS shall be of thee, and Kings shall come out of thy loins… ”
Clearly ISRAEL was to be a NATION with a MONARCHY, which would expand to become a “COMPANY OF NATIONS”!
The account of the blessing of Joseph’s sons, EPHRAIM and MANASSEH, is recorded in Genesis Chapter 48. It is staggering that Jacob chose his grandsons, the sons of Joseph to be bearers of the BIRTHRIGHT. That birthright was the passing on of the promises given to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob himself! This included the promise given to Jacob, that his seed would become a “NATION AND COMPANY OF NATIONS”! The reason was that, though they were actually his grandsons, Jacob adopted the sons of Joseph as his own sons. It was, in fact, the highest honour he could give to Joseph, that his sons would not only be equal with the other sons of Jacob, but would have the birthright. Yet Jacob went further than this. Although Manasseh was the elder of the two lads, whilst giving both EPHRAIM and MANASSEH a share of the birthright, Jacob gave the firstborn-portion to EPHRAIM! In fact, Ephraim is God’s firstborn! (Jeremiah 31:9)
To identify modern ISRAEL,we are clearly looking for a people who, though not recognised as Israel, have the hallmarks of Israel-identity. God had told Abraham his seed would be GREAT and their name “GREAT”! Jacob’s descendants were to become a “NATION AND COMPANY OF NATIONS”, a prophecy entailed in the birthright given to the sons of Joseph.
The indisputable fact that no other Nation is named “GREAT”,or has become a Company or Commonwealth of Nations in precisely this way, is in itself irrefutable proof that GREAT BRITAIN is EPHRAIM, and that the prophecy had firstborn fulfilment in the Nation of Great Britain and its Commonwealth of Nations, the “Multitude of Nations” prophesied by Jacob. The Roman Empire, at its height, tyrannically ruled approximately a quarter of the then known world. At its height, the benign British Empire ruled over a third of the earth’s surface, becoming the greatest Empire of all time, its “branches ran over the wall!”(Genesis 49:22.) Many of these nations now have independence, yet Queen Elizabeth II remains “Head of the Commonwealth”, representing over 30% of the world’s population.
The portion of the birthright given to MANASSEH is unquestionably fulfilled in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Joseph represented the greatest, richest power on earth in his day, and that blessing was passed on to both his sons, first Ephraim and second Manasseh. Ephraim’s position has diminished, at this time, partly for reasons of judgment, and partly to allow Manasseh to enjoy, in turn, Joseph’s pre-eminence in wealth and power. But this does not alter history, or reverse Ephraim’s prophetic mandate.
Recently, there have been attempts by some Anglo-Israel believers, mainly in America, to reverse the identities of Ephraim and Manasseh. Those who take the position that America is Ephraim, argue that the “STATES” fulfil the criteria of a “COMPANY OF NATIONS”.
Now, I love America, and have many wonderful Christian friends there, some of whom may differ from me on this. I certainly have no wish to give offence, but I believe truth is paramount. Iwould prefer it if an American had written this article, however I am glad that there are also many American Anglo-Israel believers who agree with me on this issue. The U.S.A. declares itself to be “one Nation under God”, a single NATION or REPUBLIC, constituting a FEDERATION OF STATES, NOT a “COMPANY OF NATIONS”! It is, in fact, a dangerous position to take, to attempt to uncross Jacob’s hands and usurp Ephraim’s mandate. AMERICA precisely fulfils MANASSEH’S role. Indeed, the amazing accuracy of this prophecy is awesome! Even the use of words is significant. MANASSEH was to become a GREAT PEOPLE! The word “people” (in contrast to a “company of nations”) is significant, suggesting Manasseh would become a REPUBLIC, as distinct from a MONARCHY! The word “people” means a “multitude gathered as a unit”, which is exactly what the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is. Undoubtedly, a broad representation of Israel tribes is gathered in AMERICA under the leadership of the MANASSEH branch of the BIRTHRIGHT PEOPLE!
Those who contend for the ‘America-Ephraim’ theory use arguments including the following:
(1) It has been said that since America is younger than Britain, then America must be Ephraim, because he was the younger of the two sons. We will show that in fact, the opposite is true.
(2) Some quote the verse: “The elder shall serve the younger”, as though it implies that America (the ‘younger’) will be greater than Britain, the ‘elder’ (Genesis 25:23). In fact, this verse refers to the relationship of Jacob and Esau, and has nothing whatsoever to do with Ephraim and Manasseh. Both America and Britain have supported each other, especially in international military conflict, as prophesied, but neither is subservient to the other.
(3) Some have sought proof of ‘Ephraimite’ identity from the fact that America has some of the world’s most verdant resources (Isaiah 28:1). However, often prophecies addressed to “EPHRAIM” as the leading tribe, apply to Israel in general. In fact, all territories possessed by both Ephraim and Manasseh are areas of great abundance, blessing and natural resources.
(4) Some claim the reference in Isaiah 28:1 to “Ephraim” being “drunk with wine” identifies the U.S.A. rather than Britain, since Britain’s national drink is beer. Again this verse applies to the Israel nations as a whole, which all have a major alcohol problem. The Hebrew word for “wine” is “yayin” which is applicable to light alcohol in general. Although many men still prefer ale, beer or lager, not only is wine made in Britain, but also it is becoming a major wine consuming nation. In fact alcohol consumption is equally varied in both Britain and America. However, reference to being “drunk with wine” can also be symbolic in prophecy.
(5) One writer states that the “wild ox”, which characterises America, is a symbol of Ephraim. He has it the wrong way round! The “wild ox” does represent America, but is the symbol of Manasseh! The “bull”, a symbol of Britain (“John Bull”), is Ephraim (Deuteronomy 33:17).
In fact, the attempts of some American-Israel believers to reverse the identities of Ephraim and Manasseh ironically add weight to American-Manasseh identity, as one of the meanings of “manasseh” is “forgetting”, and in order to make their case, they have to FORGET 300 YEARS OF HISTORY! With the greatest admiration for the U.S.A. – a truly GREAT PEOPLE – frankly, it has to be said that the case for claiming the U.S.A. is Ephraim cannot be made, as from the standpoint of history, there never has been a greater power than Great Britain, which ruled, and through the Commonwealth still influences a third of the world’s population!
The following are 12 Reasons why Ephraim is Britain and Manasseh is America and why the Roles cannot be Reversed:
(1) Jacob placed Ephraim BEFORE Manasseh, and he was called the FIRSTBORN:
Those who take the ‘Ephraim-U.S.A.’ position do so precisely on the grounds that America is the younger, as was Ephraim.Yet this undermines the whole point of the ‘Ephraim Blessing’, which was to set him before Manasseh. The term “firstborn” in both Hebrew and Greek Scriptures consistently means literally first-born!
As the younger son, for Ephraim to become the firstborn would mean his offspring would be literally first-born into their prophetic identity, fulfilling their destiny first! Since America is the younger of the two peoples, those who argue the ‘America-Ephraim’ theory must explain how the U.S.A. can be called the ‘firstbom’ when, in relation to Great Britain, America is NOT in any sense the first-born! If Ephraim is America, then his role as ‘firstborn’ is meaningless, and he has reverted to his original position as the younger son. Though Ephraim was originally the younger son of Joseph, the order was to be reversed in prophetic destiny. This means Ephraim’s destiny was to be fulfilled before that of Manasseh, and he would fulfil the role of the FIRSTBORN of the BIRTHRIGHT of Israel. So it was that EPHRAIM– originally the younger of the two sons – became the leading tribe of Israel, and the firstborn – i.e. GREAT BRITAIN – in prophetic destiny (Genesis 48:14-19, Jeremiah 31:9).
(2) Ephraim SET BEFORE Manasseh means he would be FIRST in both time and greatness:
The terms “set” and “before” both relate to order in terms of position and time. It is significant that of several Hebrew words of similar meaning, the words employed have to do with “setting in order” both in the sense of occurrence and importance. Since Great Britain came into being before the U.S.A. and at its height was greater in power and influence than any other nation before or since, where are the grounds for saying the U.S.A. is Ephraim, when quite clearly the opposite is true? The ‘American-Ephraim’ argument is, of course, based on the unquestioned fact that America is, today, the largest economy and greatest military power. This, however, far from proving the theory, actually supports the U.S.A. – Manasseh identity.
Since both sons shared the birthright, including Joseph’s legacy of pre-eminence, then each would have to take that position in his order – first EPHRAIM – Great Britain, second – MANASSEH- U.S.A. The fact that Britain entered into the height of its power in the 19th Century and America in the mid-20th Century bears this out. However, since the birthright is shared, neither can be completely independent of the other, so America and Britain have supported each other in World Conflicts in the prophesied Anglo-American Alliance (Deuteronomy 33:17). However, it is true to say both America and Great Britain are experiencing judgment and diminished influence in many respects, at this time, and there is every Biblical reason to believe both will ultimately be restored to their full greatness as part of God’s restoration of all Israel
(3) Manasseh would become a “GREAT PEOPLE”- AFTER Ephraim:
Though Manasseh was originally the elder son of Joseph, the order would be reversed in prophetic destiny. Jacob placed Ephraim before Manasseh. Yet, although Ephraim’s destiny was to be fulfilled first, Manasseh would also become a “GREAT PEOPLE”.The word “also” means “additionally” or “subsequently”, affirming that EPHRAIM would be before MANASSEH in coming to greatness and that MANASSEH – originally the first – would be the second of the two sons to come to greatness- i.e.U.S.A. – in prophetic fulfilment (Genesis 48:14-19.)
As MANASSEH historically occupied territory divided by water (River Jordan), so MANASSEH-U.S.A. today, is also divided by water from its families who remained in the British Isles. Those who hold to the ‘America-Ephraim’ theory, also contend that Britain is predominantly ‘Manasseh’. To take this position, they have to explain why, if America is Ephraim, it was Britain, not America, that was the firstborn in prophetic fulfilment, since the Ephraim “multitude of nations” – not Manasseh, the “great people” – were to be the firstborn! They must explain why, if Britain is ‘Manasseh’, Jacob’s prophecy specified that Manasseh was to become a “great people” after Ephraim! Obviously, all of these facts identify MANASSEH, not Ephraim, as AMERICA!
(4) Manasseh would be a REPUBLIC with a REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT, not a MONARCHY!
MANASSEH was to become a GREAT PEOPLE! The use of the word “people” in contrast to “company of nations” is significant, and implies a REPUBLIC, as distinct from a MONARCHY! The term “people” is very distinctive, meaning a “multitude gathered as a unit”, which is precisely what the United States of America is! It also implies diversity, suggesting Manasseh would become a Federation of States, yet “One Nation Under God”. Significantly, one of the meanings of the name “Manasseh” itself is RESPONSIBLE REPRESENTATION – NOT MONARCHY!
(5) America is Manasseh and Britain is Ephraim – confirmed by Prophetic Time Calculation:
The subjugation of the tribe of Manasseh to Assyria actually began in 745 B.C. If we calculate from this date the prophesied chastisement of 2520 years (i.e. the prophetic “seven times” Leviticus 26:24, 28) we arrive at A.D.1775-6, precisely when the 13 States signed their Declaration, and obtained Independence from Great Britain.
Ephraim was exiled to Assyria in 720 B.C. Calculating “7 Times” from that date we arrive at 1801 A.D. That very year, Great Britain became the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.
(6) America is Manasseh because Manasseh is the 13th Tribe:
When Jacob blessed Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, he adopted them as his sons, which placed them on a par with the other tribes. This meant Joseph was now represented by two tribes, making an overall total of thirteen tribes. Since Jacob “set Ephraim before Manasseh”, this meant MANASSEH was the THIRTEENTH tribe of Israel.
The prominence of the number 13 identifies AMERICA with MANASSEH the 13th Tribe:
1. 13 States signed The Declaration of Independence.
2. 13 Stars are above the Eagle on the American Seal.
3. 13 Letters form the motto ‘E Pluribus Unum’ – ‘one of many’.
4. 13 Leaves are on the Olive Branch, on the left talon
5. 13 Olives also, are on the left talon of the U.S. Seal
6. 13 Arrows are on the right talon of the Shield
7. 13 Stripes are featured on the Shield
8. 13 Stars were on the original U.S. Flag – ‘Old Glory’
9. 13 Stripes also, were on ‘Old Glory’
10. 13 Stripes still feature on the current Flag of the U.S.A.
(7) America is Manasseh because of the meaning of the name:
1. ‘Forgetting’– this primary meaning characterises America’s pioneer spirit “Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead” (Philippians 3:13- N.A.S.).
2. ‘Responsible Representation’– this is prophetic of America’s Republican Constitution and affirms Manasseh would be a Republic, not a Monarchy!
3. ‘HaMachir’ – It is said that America was named after Americo Vespucci. Apparently, this same man was referred to in Hebrew manuscripts under the name ‘HaMachir’, from which the name ‘Americo’ derives. ‘HaMachir’ means ‘from Machir’. Machir was the firstborn son of Manasseh (Genesis 50: 23). Therefore the very name ‘America’ identifies the offspring of Manasseh. Of significance also is the fact that the word ‘machir’ denotes the principle of Salesmanship or Capitalism – doesn’t that sound like America?
(8) Britain is Ephraim and America is Manasseh because of the population differential:
One of the marks of Israel would be that Ephraim and Manasseh “..shall push the people together to the ends of the earth [a clear reference to the Anglo-American alliance] and they are the ten thousands of Ephraim and they are the thousands of Manasseh” (Deuteronomy 33:17).
Now whilst this was not intended as a precise population ratio, it does indicate that EPHRAIM would in some way have a considerably larger representation than MANASSEH. However, there is only one way a distinction of this magnitude between AMERICA and GREAT BRITAIN can apply.
Please consider the following facts:
1 This distinction does not apply on a tribal basis, as descendants of both the tribes of EPHRAIM and MANASSEH are to be found in differing proportions in both BRITAIN and AMERICA, as well as other related lands. And there is no evidence of a proportionate difference on this scale between tribal EPHRAIM and MANASSEH in BRITAIN and AMERICA respectively or globally.
2 This distinction does not apply on a racial basis, if the populations of EPHRAIM and MANASSEH are calculated strictly to include only those who are truly of Israel (i.e. Anglo-Saxon-Celtic) lineage, which does not include all Caucasian peoples. America does not have ten times more than Britain and the Commonwealth. In fact the proportion is substantially higher in the British Isles, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. In overall terms, however, it has been estimated that the combined Anglo-Saxon-Celtic population of Great Britain and the Commonwealth Nations, on the one hand, and that of the U.S.A.on the other, is probably about equal, in both cases.
3 It does not apply, as some have suggested, in military terms, as forces deployed in wars have varied proportionately, and at no stage on a ten-to-one ratio.
4 This verse clearly applies, not just to EPHRAIM and MANASSEH as tribes, but as global powers, and to the “TEN THOUSANDS” and “THOUSANDS” in their respective spheres of influence. Remember, God has given Israel an inheritance amongst other races, who are citizens, or give allegiance to them respectively, or may be counted as allies in times of conflict! (Psalms 2:8.) Although by no means all AMERICAN, and BRITISH and COMMONWEALTH peoples are of Israelite stock, in terms of overall population, the U.S.A. has approx. 280 MILLION people, and GREAT BRITAIN and the COMMONWEALTH represents combined populations of 2 BILLION – approx. 30% of the world’s population give allegiance to Queen Elizabeth II, as Head of the Commonwealth.
So, in terms of overall populations and allegiance, the “THOUSANDS OF MANASSEH” and “TEN THOUSANDS OF EPHRAIM” have become the MILLIONS OF AMERICA and the combined BILLIONS OF GREAT BRITAIN AND THE COMMONWEALTH!
(9) Britain is Ephraim because Ephraim is the Leading Tribe:
The ‘American-Ephraim’ theorists have totally overlooked the fact that in order for Britain to be Manasseh, as they claim, this would have meant a complete role-reversal! It would have meant that, at the point of being re-gathered in the British Isles, ‘Manasseh’ took the leading role, whilst ‘Ephraim’ took a subordinate role until the colonisation of America. In fact, the reverse is true! This distinction does not apply on a tribal basis, as Jacob’s youngest grandson, Ephraim, was made the firstborn – the leading tribe of all Israel! Israel was divided into 4 camps consisting of 3 tribes each, and Ephraim was the leading tribe of the west camp consisting of the tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh and Benjamin. That is why, when Ephraim, Manasseh and representations of Benjamin and other tribes were gathered in the British Isles, Ephraim was the leading tribe and consequently it was Ephraim’s prerogative to establish Great Britain, the British Empire and Commonwealth of Nations.
Clearly EPHRAIM is the leading tribe of Great Britain and the Commonwealth of Nations. As firstborn of the birthright, EPHRAIM-BRITAIN became the greatest, richest power on earth. For this reason, as well as many others, GREAT BRITAIN is identified as EPHRAIM! The firstborn was known as the “bull” – a symbol of Great Britain (Deuteronomy 33:17).
As long as MANASSEH remained in Britain, he could not fulfil his destiny, because he would always be subordinate to EPHRAIM. The only way for MANASSEH to become the GREAT PEOPLE of Jacob’s prophecy was to be SEPARATED from EPHRAIM.
MANASSEH could not take a leadership role, or fulfil prophetic destiny, until after EPHRAIM – the firstborn and leading tribe – had entered into his inheritance. Not until MANASSEH was SEPARATED from EPHRAIM, could he also obtain his father, Joseph’s legacy, and so, in turn, MANASSEH, as the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, at this moment, occupies the prime position of wealth and power of any single Nation, reinforced by the ANGLO-AMERICAN ALLIANCE.
Let us not forget, however, that BRITAIN once occupied that position in a far greater capacity than ANY other nation, past or present! Also, whilst the riches and power of MANASSEH-U.S.A. are contained within a single republic, EPHRAIM represents the combined population, wealth and influence of GREAT BRITAIN, its MONARCHY, and COMMONWEALTH OF NATIONS!
(10) Ephraim would be a “Multitude of Nations” and Manasseh a “Great People”:
The prophecy contained in Genesis 48:19 is a confirmation of Genesis 35:11, that Israel would be a Nation and Company of Nations. The major fulfilment of this prophecy to Israel was entailed in the birthright given to Ephraim and Manasseh, and it was Ephraim, the designated firstborn, who was to fulfil the greater part, becoming a Company of Nations!
One ‘Ephraim-America’ argument is that since Manasseh was to be a “great people” they must be ‘Britain’ since it is called ‘Great Britain’, and America must be Ephraim, because it is called ‘United States’, which they say means ‘community of nations’.
Although Manasseh was to be a ‘great’ people, Scripture nowhere states that Manasseh’s ‘name’ would be ‘Great’! That was reserved for the seed of Abraham and passed on to Isaac and Jacob, then to Ephraim, as the ‘firstborn’ of Israel! (Genesis 12:2.) The word ‘great’, with regard to Manasseh in Genesis 48:19, refers not to a ‘name’, but to a ‘great people’. Indeed this very verse states that Ephraim would be GREAT in a manner exceeding Manasseh, so the name “GREAT” rightly belongs, not to Manasseh but to Ephraim, the heir of the firstborn inheritance of ISRAEL!
The claim that the United States is a “company of nations”, is contradicted byAmerica’s claim to be “One Nation Under God”. America is a UNION OF STATES CONSTITUTING A FEDERAL REPUBLIC – it is not A “COMPANYOF NATIONS”. There are many nations consisting of a plurality of States, so America is not unique in that respect. The Russian Federation, for instance, is a Federation of Republics, and Germany a Federation of States. Many other Nations have States or Provinces that have a degree of self-government, but are not Nations in themselves.
“STATE – In such countries as the United States, Australia, Nigeria, Mexico, and Brazil, the term state (or a cognate) also refers to political units not sovereign themselves, but subject to the authority of the larger state or federal union.” Copyright @ 1994-2002 Encyclopcedia Britannica, Inc.
The U.S.A.consists of one, NOT many republics! America is not a ‘company of nations’ but a single nation, and its States are “political units not sovereign themselves, but subject to the authority of the larger State or Federal Union” constituting – by their own definition ONE NATION! It is emphatically not a “multitude of nations”!
The plain statement that Ephraim would be a multitude of nations refers not to a division of ‘States’ within a single Federation, but to many nations with distinctive identity,e.g. Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand etc. Whilst the U.S.A.cannot, in all honesty, be defined as a “multitude of nations”, the definition certainly applies to Great Britain.
The distinction between Ephraim and Manasseh is precisely the fact that Ephraim would become a “multitude of nations”. The ‘America-Ephraim’ theory, vainly attempts to make America what it is NOT, whilst blatantly denying what Britain and the Commonwealth of Nations so clearly IS!
It is, to say the least, intellectual dishonesty, to attempt to say America answers the description of Ephraim as a ‘company of nations’ whilst at the same time denying that status to Great Britain, relegating it to a ‘single nation’!
Whilst the riches and power of MANASSEH-USA are contained within a single republic, EPHRAIM represents the combined population, wealth and influence of GREAT BRITAIN, its MONARCHY, and COMMONWEALTH OF NATIONS!
It is true that many of the Commonwealth Nations now have their independence. Yet it is a very interesting fact, especially in view of the claims of ‘abuses‘ of British Colonialism, that the same nations that were once part of the British Empire remain Members of the Commonwealth, and honour the Queen as Head of the Commonwealth!
However, there remain many Crown Dependencies and Commonwealth Realms, over whom H.M. Queen Elizabeth II is still Sovereign Head of State – Nations such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many others. In fact, if as our ‘America-is-Ephraim’ friends insist, we are to recognise a ‘state’ constituted similarly to those within the U.S.A., as a ‘nation’, then if we count the Nations, States and Provinces constituting Great Britain, the Crown Dependencies and Realms alone, they total approximately twice as many as the U.S.A. On this basis, Britain and the Commonwealth would represent an even greater ‘multitude of nations’ or, by their definition, many ‘communities of nations’. But we prefer to stay within the precise meaning of the English language!
Great Britain consists of the historic Nations of the United Kingdom of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, Offshore Crown Dependencies and British Overseas Territories. The 54 Nations that constitute the Commonwealth of Nations – including Commonwealth Realms such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and many more who retain the Queen as Head of State, as well as many independent Nation-States – all recognise the Queen as Head of the Commonwealth. In fact, including the Offshore and Overseas Territories already mentioned, Britain and the Commonwealth consist of over 70 Countries, with an overall population of almost 2 billion people, representing over 30% of the world’s population. To say this does NOT fulfil the criteria of a “Company of Nations”, is nothing short of ludicrous!
(11) The name “Ephraim” proves Britain – not America- is Ephraim:
The word “ephrayim” means “double fruitfulness” or “abundantly fruitful”. ‘American-Ephraim’ theorists refer tothe fact that America is fruitful, which it unquestionably is, in so many respects. Yet again, they miss the point! In fact, all the tribes of Israel were to share in fruitfulness, but the special fruitfulness of Israel was to be shared particularly by the birthright tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, who would become a great people and a multitude of nations (Genesis 48:4,19). However the greater, double or abundant fruitfulness of Israel, to be fulfilled by Ephraim, was the prerogative to fulfil the primary mandate, to “be fruitful and multiply”, becoming a company or multitude of nations with a monarchy (see Genesis 35:11 with 28:3 and 48:4).
The greater fruitfulness was to be fulfilled in being multiplied into a multitude of nations! This has not been fulfilled by America!
Addressing the ISLES, God said:
“The children which thou shalt have, after thou hast lost the other, shall say again in thine ears, The place is too strait for me: give place to me that I may dwell” – (Isaiah 49:20).
This was a very clear reference to the fact that after the ISLES had lost the first offspring-nation (a clear prophecy of the birth and Independence of America), other offspring nations would be formed, in the process of expansion. It was in fact, Great Britain who, after losing its first colony (U.S.A.) went on to multiply into a multitude of nations with world-wide territories. With respect, as great as America is, it has not multiplied itself in this way. It was not America who gave birth to Canada, Australia, New Zealand and about 50 other colonies, eventually making them self-governing nations – but Great Britain! Regardless of what claims may be made, it is frankly, not America, but Britain that has fulfilled the Ephraim-mandate!
(12) As the “Firstborn”, Ephraim would have the primary hallmarks of Israel Identity:
Israel was to be a great nation, actually named “GREAT” (Genesis 12:2).The word “name” here is more than a descriptive term, but is a word commonly used with reference to a NAME! The double use of “great”, coupled with the word “name” indicates that Israel would not only be great but would actually be named “GREAT”!
They were to be relocated in ISLES, in the North-West (Isaiah 41:1, 8, 42:4, 49:1-3,12). They would number many millions, and would possess the “gates of their enemies” (Genesis 22:17, 24:60). They would “dwell in the midst of the earth” (Genesis 48:16) and be a colonising people (Isaiah 49:20). They would be a monarchy whose ‘hand’ or power-base would be “IN THE SEA” [i.e. in ISLES] (Psalm 89:25). Each of these marks of identity has been fulfilled by Great Britain.
Britain’s Ephraim-Mandate is evident in that it was Britain that colonised and built the world’s greatest Empire, and established its Commonwealth of Nations. It was Britain that led the way in Industrial Revolution. Britain was in the forefront of many major technological and engineering developments, including building the first computer.
In fact, there have sadly been attempts to re-write history, in order to play-down or ignore the significant role played by Britain, in major technological, scientific and military achievements.
For a number of years America has been enjoying Manasseh’s portion of the birthright. Some believe that, although Jacob appointed his younger brother Ephraim as Israel’s firstborn, this did not prejudice Manasseh’s inheritance as Joseph’s firstborn. In other words, whilst Ephraim would inherit the primary Israel birthright, territorial blessing and monarchy, Manasseh would receive the double-portion of Joseph’s material legacy of wealth and power. As long as Britain remained predominant, America could never enjoy Joseph’s prominence of wealth and power. This may explain why Britain had to diminish, for a time, so America could receive Manasseh’s inheritance, becoming, in his season, prevalent in material blessings.
Now, however,America’s position is also weakened. Manasseh is experiencing its share of Jacob’s Trouble. America has been attacked in its very edifices of wealth and power, the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, symbolic of the way its economic and military resources are being drained by its “War on Terror”! It is Ephraim-Britain that has proved to be the primary ally of his brother Manasseh. America’s economic strength is now being affected by a huge deficit, and the dollar which for years has been the symbol of the strongest economy, is now weak against a strong British pound and other currencies.
It may be true that America has, in recent years, led the way in technology, innovation and living standards. But most Americans believe they are still ‘ahead of the game’, and are oblivious of the fact that they have been slipping backward in recent years, whilst others, especially in Britain and Europe, have been catching up. Whilst it may be true that the average American wage is still higher, there is now a greater parity of living standards in Britain and America. Britain, in recent years, has taken a leading role in telecommunications, interactive television, digital technology, and other ground-breaking technological, scientific, genetic and medical developments. Britain played a significant part in pioneering supersonic aircraft, and now the super jumbo jet, which could revolutionise air-travel. These, and many other factors, perhaps point to a shift in the tilt of the Anglo-American power balance. In any event “the powers that be are ordained of God”!
With the greatest respect and honour to those Americans, who fought or gave their lives in two World Wars, it cannot be denied, as a fact of history, that Great Britain and its Commonwealth allies fought a substantial part of two World Wars prior to U.S. involvement. As one writer states: “The first and second World Wars were won by Britain and her daughters, with the U.S.A. assisting and assuring victory AFTER the trend of the struggle had been decided in both cases”.
The British R.A.F., with Commonwealth support, defending the British Isles against the axis-powers’ air attack, fought and won the Battle of Britain in 1940. There is no parallel in modem history! It was the major turning-pointof World War II (see 1 Chronicles 17:9-10).
It is to be noted that when the United States did join the war effort, they did so, not as individual states, but as a SINGLE nation or people (MANASSEH) – joining forces with an alliance of nations – Great Britain and the Commonwealth of Nations (EPHRAIM) (Deuteronomy 33:17).
The initial, decisive role played by the British-Commonwealth Alliance of Nations all giving allegiance to the British Crown – the Throne of David – in the two greatest Wars of human history – as well as all the other facts mentioned – are undeniable proofs of the identity of Great Britain and the Commonwealth as EPHRAIM, the firstborn of birthright Israel!
Great Britain may no longer have its Empire, but the extent of its role in world affairs should not be underestimated! It has been argued that influence is more powerful than economic or military strength. No longer the most ‘powerful’ nation, economically or militarily, Britain’s historic political, commercial and territorial connections ensure that it is powerful in terms of influence. Indeed, it is fair to say that its influence, including its military, intelligence and diplomatic involvement in so many parts of the world, stretches far beyond Europe, the Commonwealth, and the Anglo-American alliance, and is in some respects, perhaps second to none.
The FACTS of history cannot be rewritten, neither can the roles of its two main players be reversed, but rather they serve to demonstrate how GOD has, so faithfully and precisely, honoured His Word!
There are numerous other reasons that could be given, in support of the position that Britain is Ephraim and America is Manasseh, but I believe an honest assimilation of the points made, will verify the position beyond dispute.
It is not without significance that it is the British Flag, the Union Jack – signifying the Union of Jacob – that has the diagonal cross at its centre, symbolic of Jacob’s crossed hands, which affirmed the role to be fulfilled by Ephraim! The British Flag is the symbol of Ephraim’s Blessing – it’s Ephraim’s Flag! Would God have given Ephraim’s Flag to Manasseh? If America is Ephraim, why doesn’t it have Ephraim’s Flag?
Even the name ‘BRIT-ISH’ derives from the Hebrew meaning ‘Covenant-Man’!
Reference could also be made to the location of the Throne of David in Great Britain, which is, in itself, essential to the distinctive role of EPHRAIM-BRITAIN as the heartland of the Birthright COMPANY OF NATIONS! According to Hebrew scholarship, the name “Ephraim” denotes ‘aristocracy’. It is GREAT BRITAIN that has an aristocracy – not America!
Without doubt, that which above all, gives Ephraim- Britain precedence is its THRONE! Its cohesive influence, and the respect and loyalty it commands both within and beyond the Commonwealth, represents perhaps the greatest influence and stabilising factor in the modern world. Concerning that Throne, God said there would always be a descendant of David to occupy the throne of the house of Israel (Jeremiah 33:17).The British Throne is the Throne of the house of Israel. Some concede the Throne is in Britain, yet seemingly believe the chief tribe and nucleus of the house of Israel is across the ocean on another Continent! Without doubt, there is a significant representation of Israel in America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Zimbabwe-Rhodesia, Northwest Europe and other lands. But equally without doubt, the nucleus of the designated firstborn of Israel is located where the throne is, reigning not only over Israel in the Isles, but over all the other branches of the house of Israel, who still give allegiance to that Throne!
I should add, allegiance is to the Throne, and what it represents. The Royal Family is fallible, like the rest of us. But what that Throne represents is a Covenant that cannot be broken, and a Kingdom that cannot be shaken, and He shall come whose right it is, to take His Throne, as great David’s greater Son, the Lord Jesus Christ!
In summary, to substantiate the reverse position necessitates defining the world’s greatest federal republic (U.S.A.) as a company of individual nations, whilst simultaneously denying the status of Great Britain, and the territories and realms associated with it, and with its monarchy, as a commonwealth of nations. It makes nonsense of Jacob’s placing Ephraim before Manasseh, and totally confuses their distinctive roles. It robs Ephraim of his firstborn-status, and is effectively, a blatant attempt to ‘uncross’ the hands of Jacob. Frankly, I do not believe God will bless and anoint our preaching of the Gospel of the Kingdom, if we misrepresent it in this way!
The case for denying the role of Great Britain as Ephraim, and reversing his role with that of Manasseh cannot be made, in honesty, as from the standpoint of history, there never has been a greater power than Great Britain, which ruled, and through the Commonwealth still influences a third of the world’s population! Israel was to “spread abroad to the West, East, North and South”, a promise clearly fulfilled by Great Britain’s world-wide Commonwealth of Nations. No other Nation has fulfilled, or exceeded, the greatness of Great Britain!
Close to 100 nations joined in the celebrations of the Queen’s Jubilee on June 2nd-3rd 2002. This event has helped to awaken us to the amazing significance of the British Monarchy, as the Throne of David, a significance rooted in Israel’s history and Biblical prophecy. It was significant also – that in the 50th Year of Queen Elizabeth II – Britain hosted the Commonwealth Games, with entrants from 72 countries, all giving allegiance to the Queen as Head of the Commonwealth of Nations! We ask, what other Monarch, President or Head of State commands such an allegiance?
Is this not proof that BRITAIN-EPHRAIM, even in its present spiritual blindness, is still fulfilling a role of far greater significance than most people recognise?
It is a sad day when Anglo-Israel believers are vying like the disciples, as to “who is greatest in the Kingdom of God”.
One of the beautiful factors about a right understanding of Ephraim-Manasseh Truth is that whilst Manasseh would become a great people in his own right, Ephraim’s greatness should not give undue cause for pride, because it is a greatness vested, not in one nation as such, but in a company of nations. In this way, no single nation can say, “I am the greatest”, but God alone gets all the glory!
Essentially, we are all one people, and there are representations of both tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh on both sides of the Atlantic, though in differing proportions. All the tribes of Israel are undoubtedly represented, in varying degrees, in all the Israel nations, and therefore we all have an equally significant role to play regardless of what tribe we represent.
At the end of the day, the primary issue is that we recognise our collective Israel identity. Tribalism and narrow nationalism really has no place in God’s economy. Regardless of what part of Israel we live in, we should rejoice in the fulfilling of the plan and purpose of God, and we should glory, not in our nationhood, or even our Israelitish identity, but in the GOD of Israel- “He that glories, let him glory in the Lord”.
Hasten the day, when the Lord Jesus Christ Himself will reign, as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and all the Kingdoms of this World become the Kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign for ever and ever!
Definitions – Encyclopedia Britannica:
U.S.A. – a federal republic of 50 states
STATE – In such countries as the United States, Australia, Nigeria, Mexico, and Brazil, the term state (or a cognate) also refers to political units not sovereign themselves, but subject to the authority of the larger state or federal union.
U.S.STATE – defined as “constituent state of the United States of America”.
CONSTITUENT – an essential part, component, element
Copyright @1994-2002 Encyclopredia Britannica, Inc.
The above definitions clarify that each State in the U.S.A. is a component part of One Federal Republic, and as such, a State cannot be defined as a “nation”. U.S. States are designated as “sub-national entities”.
