Blessing of the Children III

Ephraim and Menashe were singled out as the models for blessing because they were unique. Although they were not sons of Jacob and, therefore, should not have had the status of individual tribes any more than did Jacob’s other grandchildren, the patriarch elevated them to the status of separate tribes. Rather than being considered merely the two halves of Joseph, each was granted his own portion in the Land of Israel, and each had the same rights as the other tribes.

Therefore, in effect, the Blessing of the Children implies that each child should be so blessed and receive heavenly assistance to rise above their expected status and achieve greatness.