Topical Bible: Ephraim: Mount of Sheba Resides In

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Topical Encyclopedia

Ephraim, one of the prominent tribes of Israel, holds significant historical and theological importance within the biblical narrative. The tribe is named after Ephraim, the second son of Joseph and Asenath, and grandson of Jacob (Israel). Ephraim, along with his brother Manasseh, was adopted by Jacob as his own sons, thus receiving a portion of the inheritance among the tribes of Israel (Genesis 48:5-6).

The territory of Ephraim was centrally located in the land of Canaan, encompassing a fertile and strategically important region. It was bounded by the tribe of Manasseh to the north and the tribe of Benjamin to the south. The land of Ephraim included significant cities such as Shiloh, where the Tabernacle was located for many years, making it a central place of worship and pilgrimage for the Israelites (Joshua 18:1).

The "Mount of Ephraim" or "hill country of Ephraim" is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as a notable geographical feature within the territory of the tribe. This mountainous region provided a natural defense and was known for its lush landscapes and agricultural productivity. It is within this context that the reference to the "Mount of Sheba" arises, though the specific mention of "Mount of Sheba" is not directly found in the biblical text. Instead, it may be understood as a traditional or interpretive designation, possibly linked to the broader narrative of Sheba, a region or people known for wealth and wisdom, as seen in the account of the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon (1 Kings 10:1-13).

The tribe of Ephraim played a crucial role in the history of Israel. It was often seen as a leading tribe, especially during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. Notably, Joshua, the successor of Moses and the leader who brought the Israelites into the Promised Land, was from the tribe of Ephraim (Numbers 13:8). The tribe's prominence continued into the era of the divided kingdom, where Ephraim became synonymous with the northern kingdom of Israel, often referred to as "Ephraim" by the prophets (Isaiah 7:2).

Ephraim's spiritual legacy is complex. While the tribe was blessed with leadership and prosperity, it also faced criticism from the prophets for its idolatry and rebellion against God. Hosea, in particular, speaks extensively about Ephraim's unfaithfulness and the resulting judgment, yet also holds out hope for repentance and restoration (Hosea 11:8-9).

In summary, Ephraim's historical and spiritual significance is deeply woven into the fabric of Israel's account. Its central location, leadership role, and the challenges it faced serve as a testament to the complexities of faithfulness and the enduring call to return to God.

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2 Samuel 20:21
The matter is not so: but a man of mount Ephraim, Sheba the son of Bichri by name, has lifted up his hand against the king, even against David: deliver him only, and I will depart from the city. And the woman said to Joab, Behold, his head shall be thrown to you over the wall.
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