The Sons of Issachar: In a Glimpse

The Sons of Issachar: In a Glimpse

Who are the Sons of Issachar?

The Sons of Issachar were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descendants of Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. Their name is often associated with wisdom and understanding of the times, a trait that distinguished them among the tribes of Israel.

Lineage

1. Issachar: Issachar was the ninth son of Jacob and the fifth son of Leah. His birth is recorded in Genesis.

   • Genesis 30:17-18: "And God listened to Leah, and she conceived and bore Jacob a fifth son. Leah said, 'God has given me my wages because I gave my servant to my husband.' So she called his name Issachar."

2. Descendants: Issachar had four sons: Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron.

   • Genesis 46:13: "The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron."

   • Numbers 26:23-25: "The sons of Issachar according to their families: of Tola, the family of the Tolaites; of Puah, the family of the Punites; of Jashub, the family of the Jashubites; of Shimron, the family of the Shimronites. These are the families of Issachar according to those who were numbered of them: 64,300."

Their Work and Training

The Sons of Issachar are noted in the Bible for their understanding of the times and knowledge of what Israel ought to do. This indicates that they were leaders and advisors who possessed insight and wisdom, likely acquired through diligent study, observation, and perhaps prophetic revelation.

1. Understanding of the Times:

   • 1 Chronicles 12:32: "Of the sons 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."

This verse highlights their unique ability to discern and make strategic decisions, which would have been crucial during times of war and peace.

Contributions to the Hebrew Nation

Support for King David: The Sons of Issachar played a significant role during the reign of King David. They supported his kingship and were part of the group that helped consolidate his rule over Israel.

• 1 Chronicles 12:32: As mentioned, they provided leadership and wisdom, essential for David's consolidation of power.

Military Contributions: The tribe of Issachar also contributed to the military strength of Israel. They were counted among the warriors who supported various military campaigns.

• Numbers 1:28-29: "Of the people of Issachar, their generations, 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: those listed of the tribe of Issachar were 54,400."

Provision of Judges and Leaders: The descendants of Issachar included judges and leaders who played pivotal roles in maintaining justice and order.

• Judges 10:1: "After Abimelech there arose to save Israel Tola the son of Puah, son of Dodo, a man of Issachar, and he lived at Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim."

The Sons of Issachar were notable for their wisdom, understanding of the times, and strategic insight, which made them invaluable leaders and advisors in Israel. They descended from Issachar, the son of Jacob, and contributed significantly to the military, political, and judicial aspects of the Hebrew nation. Their legacy is a testament to the importance of wisdom and discernment in leadership.

The formation and arrangement of the Israelite tribes during times of travel and battle were meticulously outlined in the Bible. The Sons of Issachar had a specific place in this arrangement, reflecting their role and importance among the tribes.

Contribution to the Israelite Army during Israel's conquest of Canaan

• During the census of the tribes in the wilderness, Issachar's numbers highlighted their significant contribution to the overall military strength of Israel.
• Numbers 1:28-29: "Of the people of Issachar, their generations, 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: those listed of the tribe of Issachar were 54,400."
• Numbers 26:23-25: "The sons of Issachar according to their families: of Tola, the family of the Tolaites; of Puah, the family of the Punites; of Jashub, the family of the Jashubites; of Shimron, the family of the Shimronites. These are the families of Issachar according to those who were numbered of them: 64,300."
  • These numbers reflect the significant military manpower provided by the tribe of Issachar, essential for the various military campaigns during Israel's conquest of Canaan and subsequent periods of conflict.

Military Organization and Support to Israels conquest of Canaan

• The organization of the tribes around the Tabernacle and their order of march also underscores Issachar's role in the military structure of Israel.

• Numbers 2:5-6: "The tribe of Issachar will camp next to them. The leader of the people of Issachar is Nethanel son of Zuar. His division numbers 54,400."

• Numbers 10:15: "And over the company of the tribe of the people of Issachar was Nethanel the son of Zuar."

• Positioned with Judah and Zebulun on the east side of the camp, Issachar was part of the leading group, responsible for setting the pace and leading the march, a strategic position in both travel and battle.

The Sons of Issachar contributed significantly to the military efforts of Israel through their involvement in key battles, provision of warriors, and strategic positioning within the tribal organization. Their role in the battle against Sisera, support for King David, and substantial military manpower highlight their importance in the defense and leadership of the nation of Israel. Their contributions were not only in numbers but also in their strategic insight and leadership, making them a crucial part of Israel's military history.

Formation in Battle

Position in the Camp: The tribes were arranged around the Tabernacle in a specific order when encamped, and this arrangement also applied when they set out for battle.

• Numbers 2:3-9: The arrangement of the camp and the order of march are detailed in Numbers 2. The tribes were divided into four groups, each consisting of three tribes. Issachar was part of the group led by the tribe of Judah, which camped on the east side of the Tabernacle.

  • Numbers 2:3-9: "On the east side, toward the sunrise, the divisions of the camp of Judah are to encamp under their standard. The leader of the people of Judah is Nahshon son of Amminadab. His division numbers 74,600. The tribe of Issachar will camp next to them. The leader of the people of Issachar is Nethanel son of Zuar. His division numbers 54,400. The tribe of Zebulun will be next. The leader of the people of Zebulun is Eliab son of Helon. His division numbers 57,400. All the men assigned to the camp of Judah, according to their divisions, number 186,400. They will set out first."

Order of March: When the Israelites set out from their encampments, they did so in a specific order.

• Numbers 10:14-16: "The standard of the camp of the people of Judah set out first by their companies, and over their company was Nahshon the son of Amminadab. And over the company of the tribe of the people of Issachar was Nethanel the son of Zuar. And over the company of the tribe of the people of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon."

Strategic Importance

The placement of Issachar with Judah and Zebulun on the east side, leading the march, signified a position of prominence and responsibility. This grouping was strategically important for several reasons:

Leadership and Initiative: Being in the vanguard, the tribes of Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun led the entire assembly, setting the pace and direction. This aligns with Issachar's noted wisdom and understanding of the times, as their insights would have been crucial in directing the course of action.

Protection and Defense: As part of the leading group, Issachar would have been among the first to engage in battle, providing both offense and defense. Their understanding of the times likely included strategic and tactical acumen, making them effective leaders in combat situations.

The Sons of Issachar held a critical role in the formation of the Israelite tribes, both in encampment and during times of travel and battle. Positioned with Judah and Zebulun on the east side, they were at the forefront of the march, embodying leadership, strategic wisdom, and readiness for battle. This placement underscores their importance and the trust placed in their capabilities by the broader community of Israel.

The Sons of Issachar supported King David's reign by providing strategic insight and leadership during a critical period of transition in Israel's history. Their understanding of the times and knowledge of what Israel ought to do made them invaluable allies. Here are some specific ways they supported King David:

Support for King David

Understanding of the Times and Strategic Counsel:

1 Chronicles 12:32: "Of the sons 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."

This verse highlights the Sons of Issachar as leaders with exceptional wisdom and discernment. Their ability to understand the times likely involved interpreting political, social, and perhaps prophetic signs, allowing them to advise David effectively. Their counsel would have been crucial in forming strategies, making decisions, and navigating the complexities of uniting the tribes of Israel under David's leadership.

Providing Strategic Counsel and 

Prophetic Insight

• Their understanding of the times and knowledge of what Israel ought to do meant that the Sons of Issachar likely provided strategic counsel to David. This counsel would have been invaluable in navigating the complexities of consolidating power and establishing a stable government.

• 1 Chronicles 12:32: The phrase "understanding of the times" suggests that their insights included political, social, and possibly prophetic understanding, making their advice critical in shaping David's policies and decisions. The Sons of Issachar had a keen ability to discern the will of God and the direction in which He was leading Israel. This insight would have included recognizing the divine timing for actions and decisions, which is a prophetic characteristic. 

• This implies not just knowledge but an interpretative skill to understand events in light of God's plans and purposes.
• Strategic Timing: The Sons of Issachar knew the importance of timing in both spiritual and practical matters. Their decision to support David at Hebron came at a pivotal moment when consolidating support for David was crucial.
• Ecclesiastes 3:1 (though not directly related to Issachar, this principle aligns with their wisdom): "For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven."

Military Support:

• The Sons of Issachar were part of the armed forces that came to support David at Hebron, helping to transfer the kingdom from Saul to David.
• The Sons of Issachar were part of the forces that joined David at Hebron to turn the kingdom of Saul over to him, in accordance with the word of the Lord.
• By supporting David, the Sons of Issachar also strengthened military alliances, as their warriors joined forces with David's army. This not only bolstered David's military strength but also showcased a united front to potential adversaries.
• 1 Chronicles 12:23-40: This passage lists the warriors from various tribes who came to support David, including the Sons of Issachar. 
• 1 Chronicles 12:40: "And also their relatives, from as far as Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, came bringing food on donkeys and on camels and on mules and on oxen, abundant provisions of flour, cakes of figs, clusters of raisins, and wine and oil, oxen and sheep, for there was joy in Israel."
• This passage highlights the logistical and supportive role they played, ensuring that David's forces were well-provisioned and demonstrating their commitment to the cause.
• Although the primary emphasis here is on their wisdom and leadership, the inclusion of Issachar among the forces gathered for David indicates their readiness and capability for military engagement.

Political Support and Alliance:

• By aligning with David, the Sons of Issachar contributed to the political stability and unity of the nation. Their support helped legitimize David's claim to the throne, showing that he had the backing of wise and respected leaders within the tribes of Israel.

• The Sons of Issachar's political support and alliance with David were significant in several ways, highlighting their influence and the crucial role they played in unifying Israel under David's reign. This support was not only a testament to their wisdom and understanding but also pivotal in ensuring a smooth transition of power and stabilizing David's rule.

Their understanding likely encompassed an acute awareness of the political and social dynamics of the time. They would have been able to read the mood of the nation, the intentions of leaders, and the needs of the people, enabling them to advise appropriately.

• Their support for David at a critical time shows they understood the political shift and recognized David as God's chosen leader for Israel.

Legitimizing David's Kingship:

• The Sons of Issachar's endorsement of David as king helped legitimize his claim to the throne. As respected leaders with a reputation for wisdom and understanding of the times, their support would have carried considerable weight among the other tribes.

• 1 Chronicles 12:32: "Of the sons 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."

• This verse indicates that Issachar's leaders were not only wise but also influential, commanding the respect and loyalty of their kinsmen. Their decision to support David would have influenced others to follow suit.

Symbolizing Wise Leadership and Governance:

• The involvement of the Sons of Issachar symbolized wise and prudent leadership. Their reputation for wisdom and discernment would have set a standard for governance under David, emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable and insightful leadership.
• Their participation would have reinforced David's image as a king who valued and utilized wise counsel, thus promoting a governance style based on understanding and strategic thinking.

Contributing to Political Stability and Unity:

• Their support was crucial in uniting the divided tribes of Israel under David's leadership. After the death of Saul, there was potential for division and conflict among the tribes, but the Sons of Issachar's decision to back David helped foster unity.

• 1 Chronicles 12:38: "All these, men of war, arrayed in battle order, came to Hebron with a whole heart to make David king over all Israel. Likewise, all the rest of Israel were of a single mind to make David king."

• The alignment of the Sons of Issachar with David helped create a collective sense of purpose and direction among the tribes, which was essential for political stability.

Cultural and Religious Guidance:

• Their role likely extended to advising on cultural and religious matters, ensuring that David’s policies aligned with the spiritual and cultural ethos of Israel.
• Their counsel would have helped in maintaining the nation’s faithfulness to God’s laws and in addressing the religious aspects of governance.

Biblical Context and Full References

To understand the full impact of the Sons of Issachar's support, it's helpful to read the surrounding passages that detail the gathering of forces and the unification of Israel under David:

• 1 Chronicles 12:23-40:
  • "These are the numbers of the divisions of the armed troops who came to David at Hebron to turn the kingdom of Saul over to him, according to the word of the Lord. The men of Judah bearing shield and spear were 6,800 armed troops. 
  • Of the Simeonites, mighty men of valor for war, 7,100. 
  • Of the Levites 4,600. The prince Jehoiada, of the house of Aaron, and with him 3,700. Zadok, a young man mighty in valor, and twenty-two commanders from his own fathers' house. 
  • Of the Benjaminites, the kinsmen of Saul, 3,000, of whom the majority had to that point kept their allegiance to the house of Saul. 
  • Of the Ephraimites 20,800, mighty men of valor, famous men in their fathers' houses. 
  • Of the half-tribe of Manasseh 18,000, who were expressly named to come and make David king. 
  • 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. 
  • Of Zebulun 50,000 seasoned troops, equipped for battle with all the weapons of war, to help David with singleness of purpose. 
  • Of Naphtali 1,000 commanders with whom were 37,000 men armed with shield and spear. Of the Danites 28,600 men equipped for battle. 
  • Of Asher 40,000 seasoned troops ready for battle. 
  • Of the Reubenites and Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh from beyond the Jordan, 120,000 men armed with all the weapons of war. All these, men of war, arrayed in battle order, came to Hebron with a whole heart to make David king over all Israel. 
  • Likewise, all the rest of Israel were of a single mind to make David king. And they were there with David for three days, eating and drinking, for their brothers had made preparation for them. And also their relatives, from as far as Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, came bringing food on donkeys and on camels and on mules and on oxen, abundant provisions of flour, cakes of figs, clusters of raisins, and wine and oil, oxen and sheep, for there was joy in Israel."

The Sons of Issachar played a crucial role in supporting King David through their wisdom, strategic insight, military support, and political alliance. Their understanding of the times and decisive action helped establish David's reign and unify the nation of Israel, marking a significant period in biblical history.

The Sons of Issachar made notable military contributions to the nation of Israel, particularly during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy under King David. Their involvement in military affairs underscored their importance not only as wise leaders but also as capable warriors.

Political Significance of Their Support and Alliance with David

The political support and alliance of the Sons of Issachar with David were crucial in legitimizing his kingship, uniting the tribes of Israel, providing strategic counsel, symbolizing wise leadership, and strengthening military alliances. Their endorsement and involvement were instrumental in the smooth transition of power and the establishment of a stable and unified Israel under David's reign. Their wisdom and understanding of the times made them invaluable allies, contributing significantly to the political and social stability of the nation.

The Sons of Issachar are renowned in biblical history for their exceptional understanding of the times and their ability to provide strategic counsel. This particular quality set them apart and made their contributions to the nation of Israel and the reign of King David especially significant.

Participation in the Battle Against Sisera

The tribe of Issachar played a role in the battle against Sisera, the commander of the Canaanite army, during the time of the Judge Deborah.

Judges 5:15: "The princes of Issachar came with Deborah, and Issachar faithful to Barak; into the valley they rushed at his heels. Among the clans of Reuben there were great searchings of heart."

The battle against Sisera is one of the most dramatic and significant military engagements recorded in the Bible, showcasing divine intervention and the courage of Israel's leaders and warriors. This battle is primarily recounted in Judges chapters 4 and 5, featuring Deborah, Barak, Jael, and the tribes of Israel, including Issachar.

Scenario Leading Up to the Battle

1. Oppression by King Jabin:
   • Israel was under the oppressive rule of Jabin, the king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor. Sisera, the commander of Jabin's army, had 900 iron chariots and oppressed the Israelites cruelly for twenty years.
   • Judges 4:2-3: "So the Lord sold them into the hands of Jabin king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor. Sisera, the commander of his army, was based in Harosheth Haggoyim. Because he had 900 chariots fitted with iron and had cruelly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years, they cried to the Lord for help."

2. Call of Deborah and Barak:
   • Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, received a divine command to mobilize the tribes of Israel against Sisera. She summoned Barak, instructing him to gather 10,000 men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun.
   • Judges 4:6-7: "She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, 'The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead them up to Mount Tabor. I will lead Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s army, with his chariots and his troops to the Kishon River and give him into your hands.'"

The Battle

1. Gathering of Forces:

   • Barak, accompanied by Deborah, led the Israelite forces to Mount Tabor. Among the warriors were the leaders and fighters from the tribe of Issachar, who were noted for their allegiance and support.
   • Judges 4:10: "There Barak summoned Zebulun and Naphtali, and ten thousand men went up under his command. Deborah also went up with him."

2. Issachar's Role:

   • The tribe of Issachar, along with other tribes, played a crucial role in the battle. Their leaders and warriors supported Barak and Deborah, contributing to the united front against Sisera.
   • Judges 5:15: "The princes of Issachar were with Deborah; yes, Issachar was with Barak, sent under his command into the valley. In the districts of Reuben, there was much searching of heart."

3. Divine Intervention and Tactical Advantage:

   • As Sisera and his chariots approached, the Lord caused confusion in Sisera’s ranks. Heavy rain turned the Kishon River into a torrent, rendering Sisera's iron chariots useless in the mud, giving the Israelites a strategic advantage.
   • Judges 4:14-15: "Then Deborah said to Barak, 'Go! This is the day the Lord has given Sisera into your hands. Has not the Lord gone ahead of you?' So Barak went down Mount Tabor, with ten thousand men following him. At Barak’s advance, the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and army by the sword, and Sisera got down from his chariot and fled on foot."

4. Complete Victory:

   • The Israelite forces pursued Sisera’s army, defeating them completely. Sisera fled on foot and sought refuge in the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, an ally of King Jabin.
   • Judges 4:16: "Barak pursued the chariots and army as far as Harosheth Haggoyim, and all Sisera’s troops fell by the sword; not a man was left."

The Death of Sisera

1. Jael’s Role:
   • Jael welcomed Sisera into her tent, offering him milk and a place to rest. When Sisera fell asleep, Jael killed him by driving a tent peg through his temple.
   • Judges 4:21: "But Jael, Heber’s wife, picked up a tent peg and a hammer and went quietly to him while he lay fast asleep, exhausted. She drove the peg through his temple into the ground, and he died."

2. Confirmation of Victory:
   • Barak arrived in pursuit of Sisera and found that Jael had killed him, confirming the complete victory over the Canaanite forces.
   • Judges 4:22: "Just then Barak came by in pursuit of Sisera, and Jael went out to meet him. 'Come,' she said, 'I will show you the man you are looking for.' So he went in with her, and there lay Sisera with the tent peg through his temple—dead."

Aftermath and Significance

1. Song of Deborah:
   • Deborah and Barak sang a song of victory, praising God for the deliverance and highlighting the bravery and contributions of the tribes, including Issachar.
   • Judges 5:15: "The princes of Issachar were with Deborah; yes, Issachar was with Barak, sent under his command into the valley."

2. Peace in Israel:
   • The defeat of Sisera and King Jabin led to peace in Israel for forty years.
   • Judges 4:23-24: "On that day God subdued Jabin king of Canaan before the Israelites. And the hand of the Israelites pressed harder and harder against Jabin king of Canaan until they destroyed him."

The battle against Sisera was a significant victory for Israel, showcasing divine intervention and the collaborative effort of the tribes under inspired leadership. The Sons of Issachar played a vital role in this victory through their support and participation, contributing to the defeat of a powerful oppressor and securing peace for the nation. Their involvement highlighted their military prowess, loyalty, and strategic importance in the history of Israel.

The Sons of Issachar’s understanding of the times and strategic counsel were pivotal in shaping the political, military, and spiritual landscape of Israel. Their prophetic insight, awareness of political and social dynamics, and strategic timing made them invaluable advisors. Their support for David, involvement in key battles, and ability to unite the tribes under a common purpose exemplify their wisdom and discernment, solidifying their legacy as astute leaders who knew what Israel ought to do in crucial moments.

By Rev Dr Rolando E Santiago DD, DPM, ThD

President- EaglesNest Christian Academy and School of Theology