Greater than he; so the tribe of Ephraim was both in number, Numbers 1:32,33,35 2:19,21 Deu 33:17, and in power and privileges; for that tribe was the seat first of the tabernacle, and afterwards of the kingdom. Whence the name of Ephraim is sometimes put for all the ten tribes, as Isaiah 7:2, and sometimes for Joseph himself, as Numbers 1:32 Revelation 7:8, which Manasseh never is. A multitude of nations, i.e. equal to many nations in number and strength; or, from them shall proceed many nations, i.e. many numerous; potent, and flourishing families, whereof each is equivalent to an ordinary nation. For as nations are sometimes called families, as Malachi 14:18, so the tribes and families of Israel are called nations or people, as Ezekiel 2:3 Acts 4:27.
Related Commentaries of Genesis 48:19
Genesis 48:19
19 And his father refused, and said, I know it, my son, I know it: he also shall become a people, and he also shall be great: but truly his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his seed shall become a multituded of nations.