EPHRAIM
AND MANASSEH
Role
Reversal Refuted!
By
Robert
Phillips
"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 OFAMERICA 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 BRITAINonce 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 1Chronicles 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, Ido 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".
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