Ephraim, in the context of the Book of Mormon, does not refer to a singular individual within the narrative, but rather to the tribe of Ephraim which stemmed from Ephraim, the son of Joseph. This tribe became one of the most prominent tribes of ancient Israel and later represented the main populace of the northern kingdom, often referred to as Israel, in contradistinction to the southern kingdom of Judah. References to Ephraim within the Book of Mormon are found in the quotations from the prophet Isaiah, which talk about the geopolitical and spiritual circumstances surrounding Ephraim during his era.
In the prophetic writings cited, Ephraim is described as being allied with Syria against Judah (2 Nephi 17:2), foretold to be broken as a people within a period of 65 years (2 Nephi 17:8), referenced as the head of which is Samaria (2 Nephi 17:9), and mentioned as being in conflict with the tribe of Manasseh, both arrayed against Judah (2 Nephi 19:21). Additionally, Ephraim is mentioned in a context indicating a future knowledge of the Lord’s word among all peoples, including Ephraim (2 Nephi 19:8-9).
Furthermore, scriptural text suggests that there would come a time when the envy and animosity between Ephraim and Judah would cease (2 Nephi 21:13). The tribe of Ephraim holds a significant place as part of the house of Israel, and within the Restored Gospel, the Book of Mormon itself is metaphorically referred to as “the stick of Ephraim” (Doctrine and Covenants 27:5), indicating its importance in the gathering of Israel in the latter days. Notably, a geographical location named the hill Ephraim appears in the Book of Mormon’s Jaredite record (Ether 7:9), indicating that despite the unclear origins of the name within that context, the influence of the name or heritage of Ephraim extended even unto geographic nomenclature within the narrative.