Issachar
The tribe of Issachar, descended from Jacobโs ninth son, received the fertile Jezreel Valley as its inheritance in Canaan, a strategically valuable and agriculturally rich region that supported its economic stability. Scripture highlights the tribeโs distinctive wisdom in 1 Chronicles 12:32, where its leaders are described as men who understood the times and knew what Israel ought to do, enabling them to give decisive counsel during Davidโs rise to kingship. This reputation echoes Jacobโs earlier blessing in Genesis 49:14-15, which portrayed Issachar as strong yet willing to bear burdens in exchange for a pleasant land. Their example illustrates the recurring biblical theme that discernment and timely insight are essential for guiding Godโs people through political and spiritual transitions.
Details
- Meaning
- Reward
- Patriarch
- Issachar
- Mother
- Leah
- Territory
- Jezreel Valley, south of Galilee
- Blessing
Issachar is a strong ass couching down between two burdens.
- Key Figures
- Tola
Key Passages
Jacob's Blessing
Genesis 49:14-15
14ssachar is a strong ass couching down between two burdens:
Understanding the Times
1 Chronicles 12:32
32nd of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.
Did You Know?
The men of Issachar 'understood the times and knew what Israel should do' (1 Chronicles 12:32).
Jacob's blessing compared Issachar to a strong donkey. Hardworking but content to serve.
The tribe's territory included the fertile Jezreel Valley. Israel's breadbasket.