Misreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes: Patronage, Honor, and Shame in the Biblical World

by E Randolph Richards

Jacob adopts Manasseh and Ephraim even though their father, Joseph, is alive. Why? The context is inheritance and land. Future lists of the twelve sons of Judah generally include Manasseh and Ephraim in the place of Joseph (Num 26:1-51).