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Issachar is one of the lesser-known yet significant figures in the Bible. He was one of the twelve sons of Jacob and the founder of the tribe of Issachar, which played a role in Israel’s history. His name means “there is recompense” or “reward,” reflecting the circumstances of his birth. Throughout biblical history, he and his descendants were associated with wisdom, servitude, and a strong connection to agricultural prosperity. This article explores his biblical account, his tribe’s role in Israel, and the prophetic significance surrounding them.
The Birth of Issachar
Issachar was the ninth son of Jacob and the fifth son of Leah. His birth is recorded in Genesis:
“Then God listened to Leah, and she conceived and bore Jacob a fifth son. And Leah said, ‘God has given me my wages, because I have given my maid to my husband.’ So she called his name Issachar.” (Genesis 30:17-18, NKJV)
Leah, Jacob’s first wife, named her son Issachar as an acknowledgment that God had rewarded her for giving her maidservant, Zilpah, to Jacob as a concubine. This birth occurred during a period of intense rivalry between Leah and Rachel, Jacob’s second wife.
His Blessing from Jacob
Before Jacob died, he blessed each of his twelve sons, giving prophetic insights into their future. Issachar’s blessing is recorded in Genesis 49:
“Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between two burdens; He saw that rest was good, and that the land was pleasant; He bowed his shoulder to bear a burden, and became a band of slaves.” (Genesis 49:14-15, NKJV)
Jacob’s blessing paints a picture of his son as a strong yet passive figure. The reference to a “strong donkey” suggests resilience and the ability to bear heavy burdens. However, the phrase “lying down between two burdens” implies a willingness to accept labor and servitude rather than seek dominance.
This prophecy suggests that his son’s descendants would be industrious and prosperous, but also content with a role of servitude rather than leadership.
The Tribal Inheritance
When the Israelites entered the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership, the land was divided among the twelve tribes. Issachar’s inheritance is described in Joshua 19:17-23. The tribe received a fertile portion of land in the Jezreel Valley, one of the most agriculturally rich regions of Canaan.
This land was suitable for farming and livestock, fulfilling Jacob’s prophecy that Issachar would enjoy the land’s rest and prosperity. The tribe’s inheritance included key cities such as Jezreel, Shunem, and En-gannim, which later played roles in Israelite history.
The Tribe’s Role in Israel’s History
Participation in the Time of Judges
During the period of the Judges, this tribe played a role in Israel’s struggles. One of the most notable references occurs during the time of Deborah and Barak. When Israel was oppressed by the Canaanites, Issachar supported Deborah, a judge and prophetess of Israel.
“And the princes of Issachar were with Deborah; as Issachar, so was Barak sent into the valley under his command; among the divisions of Reuben there were great resolves of heart.” (Judges 5:15, NKJV)
This verse indicates that Issachar’s leaders actively supported the military campaign against the Canaanites, aligning themselves with the righteous cause of God’s deliverance.
His Wisdom and Understanding of the Times
One of the most well-known descriptions of the tribe of Issachar is found in 1 Chronicles:
“Of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their command.” (1 Chronicles 12:32, NKJV)
This passage highlights the unique wisdom of the tribe of Issachar. They were not only knowledgeable but also possessed discernment regarding the times and seasons, allowing them to provide sound guidance to Israel. This wisdom was especially evident when they supported David in his rise to kingship.
The Tribe’s Role in the Kingdom of Israel
During the monarchy of Israel, the tribe of Issachar remained part of the northern kingdom. Because of their fertile land, they contributed to the economy through agriculture. However, when the northern kingdom fell to the Assyrians in 722 B.C., Issachar, like the other northern tribes, was taken into exile.
Prophetic Symbolism
The Connection to the End Times
Some Bible scholars suggest that the qualities of Issachar—wisdom and servitude—have prophetic implications. The ability to “understand the times” may symbolize the spiritual discernment needed in the last days. Jesus spoke of the importance of discerning the times in Matthew 16:3:
“Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times.” (Matthew 16:3, NKJV)
The wisdom of Issachar serves as an example for believers to seek spiritual understanding and discernment in the present age.
The Book of Revelation
Although the tribe of Issachar is not specifically mentioned in apocalyptic prophecies, it is included in the 144,000 sealed servants of God in Revelation 7:
“Of the tribe of Issachar twelve thousand were sealed.” (Revelation 7:7, NKJV)
This inclusion indicates that Issachar’s descendants will have a role in God’s final plan for redemption.
The Lessons from His Life and Tribe
Issachar’s story offers several lessons for believers today:
- The Value of Hard Work and Contentment – This tribe prospered through labor and a willingness to accept their role. This teaches the importance of diligence and humility.
- The Power of Wisdom and Discernment – Their understanding of the times serves as an example of the need for spiritual insight in daily life.
- The Dangers of Complacency – Although they were wise, their passive nature made them vulnerable to oppression, highlighting the need for both wisdom and action in following God’s will.
- Faithfulness in Supporting God’s Plans – This son of Jacob stood with Deborah and later with David, demonstrating the importance of aligning with God’s chosen leaders.
Conclusion
Issachar may not be as famous as some of the other tribes of Israel, but his role in biblical history is significant. His descendants were strong, wise, and hardworking, contributing to Israel’s growth and stability. The prophecy concerning him reflects both the blessings and challenges of his lineage—prosperity and wisdom on one hand, but servitude and submission on the other.
Ultimately, this story serves as a call for believers to seek wisdom, discernment, and diligence while remaining faithful to God’s purpose. The tribe’s example encourages Christians today to understand the times, work diligently for the Lord, and stand with those whom God has called to lead His people.