Every One in a Nutshell
Each Tribe had its own individual qualities. The Tribes were and still are real entities. They also represent Characteristics found in all of us to some degree with one or the other dominating.
The following brief outlines of Israelite Individual Tribal Character is based mainly on a study of Biblical and Rabbinical Sources, supplemented by historical experiences, and taking the meaning in Hebrew of the Tribal Names as initial guides.
Reuben:
The name Reuben literally means "See-a-Son," Reuben was the firstborn. The name assumes entitlement as something that should be obvious, "Look-at-me," automatic prerogative without earning it. Reuben believes in deference to rank. Reuben excels more in in logical deductions rather than empirical fact. He instinctively thinks there is a right way of doing things, of principles that everyone should abide by.
Simeon
Simeon has a name meaning "Hear my Grievance" or "Let my Contention be Heard." Descendants of Simeon, according to Rashi, made good teachers of children. Once something is said others need to listen. Teachers of little children need to obey first, psychology is to be applied (if at all) later. Simeon together with Levi his brother also served as policemen. Here too the same principle holds: The Law needs to be obeyed first and if necessary contested later. .Some of Simeon became beggars. Here too we find the urge to redress a wrong: Those who have more money than others are asked to give some to those who lack. Simeon may be officious: he feels things should be done as they are required to be.
Levi
The name "Levi" connotes "Accompany." Levi has a need for community not only in this world but also in the next. He is inclined to search for the other side, for something beyond himself i.e. the Spiritual. Moses was from Levi. Levi seeks company and direction. He also seaches for God. Descendants of Levi make good musicians, rabbis, legislators, lawyers, teachers, policemen, politicians. The Tribe of Levi consists of Cohens (Priests), and ordinary Levites. Among the Ten Tribes in the West, there was also a section from the Tribe of Levi known as the "Children of Moses."
Judah
"Yehudah" in Hebrew declares "Give thanks, Acknowledge." Judah is obsessed with God, or with a substitute for HIM. He seeks a higher cause. Religious Jews are capable of praying sincerely for long hours. Not everyone can do this.
Judah tends to acknowledges the truth. In case of disagreement he can usually be talked to, and reasoned with.
Issachar
The name "Issachar" is derived from a root suggesting "Reward." Descendants of Issachar want remuneration in some form or other for what they do. Commensurately they are also prepared to pay for what they receive. Issachar seeks to add value to services and objects.
Zebulon
The name "Zebulon" implies "Fertile Abode." Zebulon likes creature comforts. He appreciates bodily needs, and easy living BUT is prepared to make an effort and take risks. Zebulon does not like giving to others when it can be avoided but he is able to give a lot when he sees the need for it.
Joseph
"Addition, increase." Joseph seeks the good of all. He believes in progress, of correcting what needs dealing with. He also looks out for himself and his own benefit. Ideally he tries to merge the need to fulfill his own needs along with those of others.
Sons of Joseph:
Ephraim
The name "Ephraim" can indicate "Fruitful, doubling over." An individual from Ephraim in Hebrew was termed an "Ephrati" which name also connotes an aristocrat. Ephraim believes in hierarchy and in inalienable prerogative. Everyone has an intrinsic worth. Ephraim sizes others up almost automatically. He may be snobbish. If necessary Ephraim fights for his rights and for those of others.
Manasseh
The name suggest "Forget, add to," and also according to Rabbi Shimshon Rafael Hirsch (1808-1888) "appoint representative agent who is responsible." Manasseh is concerned with the present reality. He is quick to let bygones be bygones and make a new start. Manasseh prefers clear-cut processes agreed upon in advance that will adhered to. He likes "the Deal"!
"Machir" son of Manasseh headed a clan within the Tribe that had an identity of its own.
Machir has a name connoting "Selling." This is the principle of Capitalism. Anything can be bought. Money has value and can be used to value everything else. Manasseh may be very generous but is frequently aware of the worth of everything he deals with.
Benjamin
Benjamin, literally meaning "Son of my right hand." Benjamin tents to be Artistic and Emotional. Benjamin is impulsive but loyal. He does what needs to be done.
Dan
The name Dan indicates "Judgement." Dan may be legalistic, quibbling, argumentative, individualistic. Dan believes in the law and in equity. He examines the details.
Naphtali
This name is derived from a word root suggesting "wrestle, twine around." Naphtali struggles through life. He does not give up easily. He may also be devious, Naphtali has few companions but those he has are close ones. Individuals from Naphtali make good spouses.
Gad
The name Gad comes from "gedud" meaning "Group." Gad likes being with people. He seeks crowds, company, and prefers group decisions. Gad tries not to stand out. He seeks not to commit but to remain obscure among the group.
Asher
Asher is "Happy." Asher is smiling, friendly, healthy, often wealthy. The name "Asher" is also connected to the Hebrew "Isher" - permit. Asher may be permissive. At times Asher seems superficial but he is capable of understanding matters to their depth. "Asher" in Hebrew can also indicate "depth."