Indeed, the little we know about the lives of Efraim and Menashe supports the description of their respective strengths. Rashi explains that this referred to the respective descendants of Menashe and Efraim, namely Gidon and Yehishua. The Netziv added that Gidon was a warrior, succeeding in worldly pursuits, whereas Yehoshua was primarily a Torah scholar and teacher, excelling in spiritual matters. A fundamental difference between the worldly and spiritual realms is reflected in these biblical personalities. To succeed in worldly affairs diplomatic, military, technological, and financial one must always respond to changing realities.
Innovation is a prerequisite for overcoming new challenges in physical matters.
New strategies, weapons, technologies, and careers are appropriate, and necessary, in order to succeed. By contrast, spiritual accomplishment demands fealty to ancient tradition. Both in study and practice, the Torah Jew is guided by the law given by Hashem at Sinai thousands of years ago. Even novel interpretations are attempts to understand that revelation, and were initially given at Sinai. Gidon overcame a more powerful army by devising a new strategy.