In the Bible, Issachar means “man of reward” or “there is recompense” and is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob and Leah’s fifth son. The tribe of Issachar is known for its fruitful agricultural lands and wisdom in understanding the times (1 Chronicles 12:32).
Scripture
14 In the days of wheat harvest Reuben went and found mandrakes in the field and brought them to his mother Leah. Then Rachel said to Leah, “Please give me some of your son’s mandrakes.”
15 But she said to her, “Is it a small matter that you have taken away my husband? Would you take away my son’s mandrakes also?” So Rachel said, “Then he may lie with you tonight in exchange for your son’s mandrakes.”
16 When Jacob came from the field in the evening, Leah went out to meet him and said, “You must come in to me, for I have hired you with my son’s mandrakes.” So he lay with her that night.
17 And God listened to Leah, and she conceived and bore Jacob a fifth son.
18 So Leah said, “God has given me my wages because I gave my servant to my husband.” So she called his name Issachar.
Meaning of Issachar in the Bible
The name Issachar, meaning “man of reward” or “there is recompense,” encapsulates the tribe’s significance within the broader narrative of the Israelites. Issachar is often recognized for its agricultural productivity and dedication to farming, symbolizing a connection to the land and the blessings that God bestows upon His people for their labor. This fruitfulness is not merely physical; it also suggests a spiritual abundance that comes with obedience to God’s commands. Genesis 49:14-15 portrays Issachar as a strong donkey, resting between two burdens, indicating a willingness to work hard and shoulder the responsibilities placed upon him, thereby receiving rewards for his efforts.
Furthermore, the tribe of Issachar is particularly noted for its wisdom and discernment, as highlighted in 1 Chronicles 12:32. The men of Issachar understood the times and knew what Israel ought to do, emphasizing the importance of discernment in leadership and decision-making. This attribute suggests that the tribe was not only focused on physical rewards but also on the spiritual and communal direction of the nation. Therefore, Issachar symbolizes the ideal balance between labor, stewardship of the land, and wisdom, serving as a reminder of the holistic nature of God’s blessings—spiritual, physical, and communal—that reward diligence, faithfulness, and understanding within the community of believers.
In addition to the attributes of labor and wisdom, the legacy of Issachar can also be seen in its role within the overarching narrative of the Israelite tribes. Issachar, as one of the twelve tribes, held a distinct position in the Israelite hierarchy. This tribe contributed to the collective identity and culture of Israel, often seen as the bridge between spiritual devotion and practical life, marrying the earthly with the heavenly. The offerings and sacrifices from the land cultivated by the men of Issachar not only sustained their families but also enriched the communal worship practices, illustrating the importance of agriculture as a means of connecting with God through gratitude for His provisions.
Moreover, Issachar’s legacy extends into the historical context of Israel’s battles and conquests. The strategic importance of their agricultural prowess was fundamental during times of conflict, as food production became crucial for sustaining the Israelite armies. The tribe’s commitment to their agrarian lifestyle, coupled with their understanding of the surrounding geopolitical realities, provided Israel with necessary resources and intelligence, thereby affirming their role as vital players in the prosperity of the nation. This integration of agricultural productivity with military readiness exemplifies how Issachar represented both the sustenance of daily life and the strength needed to defend it, reinforcing the notion that true reward comes from a life committed to both practical faithfulness and spiritual awareness.
The Significance of Labor and Reward
Issachar’s name is often associated with the themes of labor and reward. In biblical narratives, the tribe of Issachar is depicted as diligent and hardworking, emphasizing the importance of effort in achieving success. This reflects a broader biblical principle that values the fruits of labor and the blessings that come from dedication and perseverance. The tribe’s connection to agricultural pursuits further underscores the idea that hard work leads to prosperity and fulfillment.
The Role of Wisdom and Understanding
Issachar is also linked to wisdom and understanding, particularly in the context of discernment and knowledge of the times. This aspect highlights the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings and making informed decisions based on insight. In a broader sense, this can be seen as a call for believers to seek wisdom and understanding in their own lives, encouraging them to navigate challenges with discernment and to recognize the significance of spiritual and practical knowledge.
The Value of Community and Support
The tribe of Issachar is often viewed as a symbol of community and support within the larger Israelite society. Their role in the biblical narrative emphasizes the importance of collaboration and unity among the tribes of Israel. This broader meaning can be applied to contemporary life, where the value of community, mutual support, and working together towards common goals is essential for growth and success. The legacy of Issachar serves as a reminder of the strength found in unity and the importance of contributing to the well-being of others.
How to Embrace Faith for Spiritual Growth
Embracing faith for spiritual growth is a deeply personal journey that invites you to cultivate a relationship with God that is both intimate and transformative. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing the Word to speak to your heart and guide your actions; consider setting aside time each day for prayer and reflection, where you can pour out your thoughts and listen for His gentle whispers. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can encourage and challenge you, as fellowship is vital in nurturing your faith. Remember, growth often comes through trials, so embrace challenges as opportunities to deepen your trust in God’s plan. Finally, practice gratitude in all circumstances, recognizing that every moment is a chance to witness His grace and love in your life. As you take these steps, you’ll find that your faith not only strengthens but also becomes a source of joy and purpose, illuminating your path as you walk closer with Christ.
Bible References to the Meaning of Issachar:
Genesis 49:14-15: 14 “Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the sheepfolds.
15 He saw that a resting place was good, and that the land was pleasant, so he bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant at forced labor.
Numbers 1:28-29: 28 Those listed of the sons of Issachar, by their clans, by their fathers’ houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, every man able to go to war:
29 “those listed of the tribe of Naphtali were 53,400.”
Numbers 2:5-6: 5 Those who camp on the east side toward the sunrise shall be of the standard of the camp of Judah by their companies, the chief of the people of Judah being Nahshon the son of Amminadab,
6 Those who will camp on the east side toward the sunrise shall be of the standard of the camp of Judah by their companies, the chief of the people of Judah being Nahshon the son of Amminadab,
Numbers 26:23-25: 23 The sons of Issachar according to their clans: of Tola, the clan of the Tolaites; of Puvah, the clan of the Punites;
24 These are the clans of Naphtali, and those listed were 45,400.
25 These are the clans of Issachar as they were listed, 64,300.
Deuteronomy 33:18-19: 18 And of Zebulun he said, “Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going out,
and Issachar, in your tents.
19 They shall call peoples to the mountain; there they offer right sacrifices; for they draw from the abundance of the seas and the hidden treasures of the sand.”
Joshua 19:17-23: 17 The fourth lot came out for Issachar, for the people of Issachar, according to their clans.
18 Their territory included Jezreel, Chesulloth, Shunem,
19 The second lot came out for Simeon, for the tribe of the people of Simeon, according to their clans. And their inheritance was in the midst of the inheritance of the people of Judah.
20 This is the inheritance of the tribe of the people of Judah according to their clans.
21 This is the inheritance of the tribe of the people of Benjamin according to its clans, boundary by boundary all around.
22 The boundary also touches Tabor, Shahazumah, and Beth-shemesh, and its boundary ends at the Jordan—sixteen cities with their villages.
23 This is the inheritance of the tribe of the people of Issachar according to their clans—the cities with their villages.
1 Chronicles 7:1-5: 1 The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron, four.
2 The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Shemuel, heads of their fathers’ houses, namely of Tola, mighty warriors of their generations, their number in the days of David being 22,600.
3 The son of Uzzi: Izrahiah. And the sons of Izrahiah: Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Isshiah, all five of them were chief.
4 According to their generations, with heads of their fathers’ houses, mighty warriors, was twenty thousand two hundred.
5 The sons of Ulam were men who were mighty warriors, bowmen, having many sons and grandsons, 150. All these were Benjaminites.
1 Chronicles 12:32-33: 32 Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, 200 chiefs, and all their kinsmen under their command.
33 Of Zebulun 50,000 seasoned troops, equipped for battle with all the weapons of war, to help David with singleness of purpose.
1 Chronicles 27:17: 17 Over the tribes of Israel, for the Reubenites, Eliezer the son of Zichri was chief officer; for the Simeonites, Shephatiah the son of Maacah;
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.