Manasseh (Joseph)

Manasseh, the elder son of Joseph, became the ancestor of one of Israel's twelve tribes, which was allotted extensive territory in the Promised Land as part of the fulfillment of Jacob's patriarchal blessing on Joseph's descendants. The tribe's inheritance was divided, with one half settling east of the Jordan River in the regions of Gilead and Bashan after their conquest under Moses, while the other half received land west of the river through Joshua's allotment alongside the tribe of Ephraim. This geographic split illustrates the practical challenges of tribal unity during the settlement period and is referenced throughout the historical books as the tribes navigated covenant faithfulness, warfare, and eventual exile. Gideon, the judge who delivered Israel from Midianite oppression, emerged from the western half-tribe, highlighting Manasseh's recurring role in key scriptural narratives of leadership and redemption.