What is the meaning of Numbers 13:7? from the tribe of Issachar • Numbers 13 tells how Moses chose twelve representatives, one “from each tribe of their fathers” (v. 2). The phrase “from the tribe of Issachar” reminds us that every clan in Israel had a personal stake in God’s promise to inherit Canaan (cf. Genesis 12:7; Exodus 6:8). • Issachar’s legacy is marked by hard work and insight—Jacob pictured the tribe as “a strong donkey…bending his shoulder to bear a load” (Genesis 49:14-15), and Moses praised their joy in the blessings of the land (Deuteronomy 33:18-19). • By sending a delegate, Issachar publicly affirmed confidence in God’s covenant and accepted responsibility for the mission. Igal • The name appears only here and in the spy list of verse 7. Igal stood shoulder-to-shoulder with men like Caleb and Joshua, sharing the same instructions (Numbers 13:17-20) and the same opportunities. • Sadly, the ten spies who brought back a fearful report persuaded the community to rebel (Numbers 13:31-33; 14:1-4). Scripture does not single out Igal’s personal words, yet his silence in defending faith reveals how easily one can drift with the crowd. • Lessons for us: – Obedience is more than starting well; it is finishing in faith (Hebrews 3:12-14). – A believer’s influence, for good or ill, often lies in whether we support courageous voices like Caleb’s or fold under pressure (Proverbs 29:25). son of Joseph • “Son of Joseph” distinguishes Igal’s immediate family, not the patriarch Joseph of Genesis. Even so, the shared name evokes the earlier Joseph who trusted God despite obstacles (Genesis 50:20). • Family identity matters in Scripture. A father’s faith (or lack of it) shapes future generations (Joshua 24:15; 2 Timothy 1:5). By including Joseph’s name, the verse invites readers to consider the spiritual heritage passed down to Igal. • Application points: – Our lineage can spur us toward faithfulness, but each person must choose obedience (Ezekiel 18:19-20). – Whether well-known or obscure, parents influence the next link in the chain; therefore, faith lived out at home matters deeply (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). summary Numbers 13:7—“from the tribe of Issachar, Igal son of Joseph”—places Issachar’s representative squarely in the story of Israel’s testing at the edge of the Promised Land. The phrase highlights three truths: every tribe is accountable to trust God’s promises; every individual, like Igal, faces the choice to stand firm in faith; and every family legacy, signaled by “son of Joseph,” matters in shaping that choice. Together the words call us to embrace our identity in God’s people, exercise personal courage, and pass on a heritage of steadfast belief. |
    |