Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Issachar, the ninth son of Jacob and the fifth born to Leah, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative. His name, which means "reward" or "recompense," reflects Leah's gratitude to God for the gift of another son (Genesis 30:18). Issachar's legacy is primarily understood through Jacob's prophetic benedictions and the role his descendants played in the history of Israel. Jacob's Prophetic Benediction: In Genesis 49, Jacob gathers his sons to deliver prophetic blessings that reveal the future of each tribe. Regarding Issachar, Jacob's words are both enigmatic and insightful: "Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the sheepfolds. He saw that his resting place was good and that the land was pleasant, so he bent his shoulder to the burden and submitted to labor as a servant." (Genesis 49:14-15) This blessing characterizes Issachar as a tribe that would find contentment in its land, willing to bear burdens and engage in labor. The imagery of a "strong donkey" suggests strength and endurance, while the choice to "lie down between the sheepfolds" indicates a preference for peace and stability over conflict. Tribal Characteristics and Role: The tribe of Issachar settled in a fertile region of Canaan, known for its agricultural productivity. This aligns with Jacob's blessing, as the tribe found prosperity in the land's richness. The Issacharites were known for their wisdom and understanding of the times, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:32: "From the sons of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do, 200 chiefs with all their kinsmen at their command." Issachar's descendants played a crucial role in supporting the leadership of Israel. They were part of the coalition that supported King David, demonstrating loyalty and discernment in political matters. Their ability to "understand the times" suggests a deep insight into social and spiritual dynamics, making them valuable advisors and leaders. Historical Context: Throughout Israel's history, the tribe of Issachar maintained a reputation for diligence and wisdom. Their land, located in the Jezreel Valley, was strategically important and agriculturally abundant. This location allowed them to thrive and contribute significantly to the nation's economy and stability. The tribe's willingness to "submit to labor as a servant" reflects a humble and industrious spirit, which was essential for the development and sustenance of the Israelite community. Their role in supporting the monarchy and their strategic location made them an integral part of Israel's success and resilience. Conclusion: Issachar's legacy, as foretold by Jacob, is one of strength, wisdom, and service. The tribe's ability to balance labor with insight and their commitment to the welfare of Israel highlight the enduring impact of Jacob's prophetic words. Through their actions and contributions, the descendants of Issachar exemplified the virtues of diligence, loyalty, and discernment, fulfilling the destiny spoken over them by their patriarch. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 49:14,15Issachar is a strong ass couching down between two burdens: Nave's Topical Index Resources Who was Issachar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.org What are the twelve tribes of Israel? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Issachar: A Son of Jacob in the Time of David Issachar: A Son of Jacob: Jacob's Prophetic Benedictions Upon Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: Insurgents From, Joined David Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: Join Deborah and Barak in War Against Sisera Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: Join With the Kingdom of Judah After the Conquest of the Land By Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: Military Forces of, Taken at Sinai Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: Moses' Blessing Upon Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: On the Plains of Moab Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: Parts of Canaan Allotted To Issachar: The Tribe of Issachar: Places in the March and Encampments the Tribe of Issachar: Assisted Deborah Against Sisera the Tribe of Issachar: Bounds of Their Inheritance the Tribe of Issachar: Descended from Jacob's Fifth Son the Tribe of Issachar: Encamped Under the Standard of Judah East of the Tabernacle the Tribe of Issachar: Families of the Tribe of Issachar: Many of, at Hezekiah's Passover the Tribe of Issachar: Next to and Under Standard of Judah in the Journeys of Israel the Tribe of Issachar: Number of Warriors Belonging To, in David's Time the Tribe of Issachar: Offering of, at the Dedication the Tribe of Issachar: Officers of, Appointed by David the Tribe of Issachar: Officers of, Appointed by Solomon the Tribe of Issachar: On Gerizim Said Amen to the Blessings the Tribe of Issachar: Persons Selected From: To Divide the Land the Tribe of Issachar: Persons Selected From: To Number the People the Tribe of Issachar: Persons Selected From: To Spy out the Land the Tribe of Issachar: Predictions Respecting the Tribe of Issachar: Remarkable Persons of the Tribe of Issachar: some of, at David's Coronation the Tribe of Issachar: Strength of, on Entering Canaan the Tribe of Issachar: Strength of, on Leaving Egypt Related Terms |