Topical Encyclopedia
The Clans of Issachar refer to the descendants of Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah, and one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Issachar played a significant role in the history of Israel, both during the wilderness wanderings and in the settlement of the Promised Land.
Biblical Lineage and Early HistoryIssachar was born to Jacob and Leah, as recorded in
Genesis 30:17-18: "And God listened to Leah, and she conceived and bore Jacob a fifth son. Then Leah said, 'God has rewarded me for giving my maidservant to my husband.' So she named him Issachar." The name Issachar is often interpreted to mean "reward" or "recompense," reflecting Leah's sentiment at his birth.
The tribe of Issachar is first mentioned in the context of the census taken in the wilderness.
Numbers 1:28-29 records, "From the sons of Issachar: their genealogies according to their clans and families, those numbered among them, every male twenty years of age or older, everyone who could serve in the army, those numbered from the tribe of Issachar totaled 54,400."
Territorial InheritanceUpon entering the Promised Land, the tribe of Issachar was allotted a fertile region in the Jezreel Valley, as described in
Joshua 19:17-23. This territory was known for its agricultural productivity, which was a significant asset for the tribe. The boundaries of Issachar's inheritance included several key cities, such as Jezreel, Shunem, and En-gannim.
Role in Israelite SocietyThe tribe of Issachar is noted for its wisdom and understanding of the times. In
1 Chronicles 12:32, the men of Issachar are described as "men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do—200 chiefs, with all their relatives under their command." This insight and discernment made them valuable leaders and advisors within the nation of Israel.
Issachar's role in the military campaigns of Israel is also highlighted in the Song of Deborah, found in
Judges 5:15, where the tribe is commended for its support in the battle against Sisera: "The princes of Issachar were with Deborah; yes, Issachar was with Barak, sent under his command into the valley."
Clans and GenealogiesThe genealogies of Issachar are detailed in several passages, including
Numbers 26:23-25, which lists the clans of Issachar: "The descendants of Issachar by their clans were: from Tola, the Tolaite clan; from Puah, the Puite clan; from Jashub, the Jashubite clan; from Shimron, the Shimronite clan." These clans formed the foundational family units within the tribe, each contributing to the overall strength and identity of Issachar.
Prophetic BlessingsJacob's blessing over Issachar in
Genesis 49:14-15 portrays the tribe as industrious and strong: "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." This imagery suggests a tribe that is hardworking and content with its lot, willing to bear burdens for the sake of prosperity.
Moses' blessing in
Deuteronomy 33:18-19 also highlights Issachar's role in worship and prosperity: "About Zebulun he said: 'Rejoice, Zebulun, in your journeys, and Issachar, in your tents. They will summon peoples to the mountain, and there they will offer sacrifices of righteousness; for they will feast on the abundance of the seas and the hidden treasures of the sand.'"
ConclusionThe Clans of Issachar, with their wisdom, industrious nature, and strategic location, played a vital role in the history and development of the nation of Israel. Their legacy is one of understanding, strength, and faithful service to God and their fellow Israelites.
