Issachar

Issachar is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, traditionally understood to be descended from Issachar, one of the sons of Jacob and Leah. The name Issachar is Hebrew in origin; its exact meaning is debated, but it is commonly associated with reward or recompense.

In the biblical narrative, Issachar is noted for both genealogical and prophetic associations. Jacob’s blessing in Genesis 49 describes Issachar as “a strong donkey, lying down between burden-burdens,” a phrasing that commentators have interpreted as indicating endurance and a preference for productive labor. The tribe is also highlighted in later biblical leadership: 1 Chronicles 12:32 notes that the men of Issachar “understood the times and knew what Israel should do,” and they were among the tribes providing leaders to David’s congregations. In the book of Judges, a prominent figure associated with Issachar is Tola, who is described as judging Israel for twenty-three years.

Issachar’s territory was allotted during the settlement of the land of Canaan to a northern region that includes parts of the Jezreel Valley and surrounding hills. The exact borders are described in the biblical text within the framework of the Israelite tribal allocations.

Historically, the tribe participated in broader Israelite affairs, contributing warriors and leaders during the united monarchy and subsequent periods. In biblical scholarship, Issachar is often cited for its associations with scholarship, discernment, and strategic insight, as reflected in the phrase about understanding the times.

In modern usage, Issachar is primarily a biblical and theological reference, with its legacy preserved in religious literature, geography, and historical studies of ancient Israel.