Topical Bible: Ephraim: A Tribe of Israel: Received Ish-Bosheth As King

◄ Ephraim: A Tribe of Israel: Received Ish-Bosheth As King ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Ephraim, one of the prominent tribes of Israel, holds a significant place in biblical history. Descended from Joseph's younger son, Ephraim was blessed by Jacob, who placed him before his elder brother Manasseh (Genesis 48:13-20). This tribe became one of the most influential in the Northern Kingdom, often representing the entire northern tribes in biblical narratives.

Historical Context

After the death of King Saul, Israel faced a period of political instability and division. Saul's son, Ish-Bosheth, was proclaimed king over Israel by Abner, the commander of Saul's army. This event marked a critical moment in the history of the tribes, as it set the stage for the eventual unification under David.

Ephraim's Role in Receiving Ish-Bosheth

Ephraim, along with other northern tribes, accepted Ish-Bosheth as king. This decision is recorded in 2 Samuel 2:8-9 : "Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul’s army, took Saul’s son Ish-bosheth, brought him over to Mahanaim, and made him king over Gilead, Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, Benjamin, and all Israel." Ephraim's acceptance of Ish-Bosheth highlights the tribe's initial loyalty to the house of Saul, despite the divine anointing of David as king over Judah.

Political and Spiritual Implications

The allegiance to Ish-Bosheth reflects the complex political landscape of the time. Ephraim's decision was influenced by traditional loyalties and the desire to maintain continuity with Saul's dynasty. However, this allegiance was short-lived, as Ish-Bosheth's reign was fraught with internal strife and lacked the divine favor that accompanied David.

Spiritually, Ephraim's choice underscores the tension between human political calculations and divine providence. While the tribe initially resisted David's kingship, it eventually became part of the united monarchy under David, recognizing God's chosen leader.

Legacy and Influence

Ephraim's initial support for Ish-Bosheth is a testament to the tribe's significant influence in Israel's early monarchy. Despite this early resistance to David, Ephraim later played a crucial role in the history of Israel, contributing to the cultural and spiritual heritage of the nation. The tribe's journey from supporting Ish-Bosheth to becoming part of David's kingdom illustrates the dynamic interplay of human agency and divine sovereignty in biblical history.

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2 Samuel 2:9
And made him king over Gilead, and over the Ashurites, and over Jezreel, and over Ephraim, and over Benjamin, and over all Israel.
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Library

The Historical Books.
... 9) and the quarrel of the men of Ephraim with Jephthah. ... Samuel, of the defeat of
the armies of Israel by the ... of David, first at Hebron over the tribe of Judah ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xx the historical books.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... a certain Michah in the hill-country of Ephraim and lodged ... of the captivity of the
land."* The tribe of Dan ... itself the most bellicose of the tribes of Israel. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm