Manasseh
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Manasseh in the Bible?
Manasseh is a Hebrew name meaning 'causing to forget.' It was given to the firstborn son of Joseph and Asenath to signify the father's desire to move past his family hardships.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the etymology and narrative context of Manasseh's name provides insight into the themes of displacement and restoration central to the Joseph narrative in Genesis.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Manasseh reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Manasseh in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Manasseh clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Manasseh." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/manasseh/