The birthright blessing, a significant element in identifying modern-day Israel, carries profound implications for future generations. Israel, as a patriarch, did not grant the birthright blessing to any of his own sons but bestowed it upon Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. He declared to Joseph that these two grandsons, born in Egypt, were to be considered as his own, stating, "Your two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, who were born to you in the land of Egypt . . . are mine; as Reuben and Simeon, they shall be mine." As part of the blessing, Israel ensured their identity by saying, "Let my name be named upon them," affirming their place within the family of Abraham and the structure of God's promises. In the act of blessing, Israel crossed his hands, placing his right hand on the head of the younger son, Ephraim, and his left hand on the older son, Manasseh, despite Joseph's concern. Israel refused to adjust his hands, asserting that he had guided them knowingly. He bestowed the greater blessing on Ephraim, declaring that he would become a multitude of nations, while reserving a lesser blessing of greatness for Manasseh, the firstborn. This intentional crossing of hands holds critical importance in understanding the whereabouts of modern-day Israel, as it shapes the future prominence of Ephraim's descendants.