1 Chronicles 7:1

The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron--four in all.

Study Bible

The sons of Issachar:
Issachar was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, making him one of the patriarchs of the tribes of Israel. The tribe of Issachar was known for its wisdom and understanding of the times, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:32. This wisdom is often associated with their ability to discern and make strategic decisions, which was crucial for the leadership and governance of Israel. The tribe's territory was located in the fertile Jezreel Valley, which was significant for agriculture and trade.

Tola:
Tola was the first son of Issachar mentioned here. His name means "worm" or "scarlet," which could symbolize humility or redemption. Tola is also noted as a judge of Israel in Judges 10:1-2, where he led Israel for 23 years. His leadership brought stability and peace to the nation after the turmoil of Abimelech's rule.

Puah:
Puah, also spelled Puvah in some translations, is the second son listed. His name means "splendid" or "blossom." The name Puah is also associated with one of the Hebrew midwives in Exodus 1:15, who defied Pharaoh's orders to kill Hebrew male infants, demonstrating courage and faithfulness to God.

Jashub:
Jashub, the third son, means "he will return" or "he will repent." This name may reflect a theme of repentance and restoration, which is a recurring motif throughout the Bible. The concept of returning to God is central to the prophetic messages in the Old Testament, calling Israel back to faithfulness.

Shimron—four in all:
Shimron is the fourth son, and his name means "watch" or "guard." This could imply a role of protection or vigilance. The mention of "four in all" emphasizes the completeness and unity of Issachar's lineage. The number four often symbolizes universality or completeness in biblical numerology, suggesting the full representation of Issachar's descendants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Issachar
One of the twelve sons of Jacob and Leah, Issachar is the patriarch of the tribe named after him. His name is often associated with labor and reward, as seen in Genesis 30:18.

2. Tola
The first son of Issachar mentioned in this verse. Tola later became a judge of Israel, as recorded in Judges 10:1-2, where he is noted for saving Israel.

3. Puah
The second son of Issachar. Not much is detailed about Puah in the Bible, but his lineage is significant in the tribal history of Israel.

4. Jashub
The third son of Issachar. His name means "he will return," which can symbolize restoration or repentance.

5. Shimron
The fourth son of Issachar. Like Puah, there is limited information about him, but he is part of the foundational lineage of the tribe of Issachar.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Lineage and Heritage
Understanding our spiritual heritage can provide insight into our identity and purpose. Just as the sons of Issachar were foundational to their tribe, our spiritual lineage in Christ is foundational to our faith journey.

God's Sovereignty in Family and History
The listing of names in genealogies reminds us that God is sovereign over history and family lines. Each person has a role in God's plan, even if their account is not fully detailed in Scripture.

Leadership and Influence
Tola's role as a judge highlights the potential for leadership and influence within a family line. We are called to be leaders in our communities, using our God-given gifts to serve others.

The Value of Every Individual
Even though some names in genealogies are less known, each person is valuable in God's eyes. This encourages us to see the worth in every individual, regardless of their prominence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lineage of Issachar reflect God's faithfulness to His promises to the patriarchs?

2. In what ways can understanding our spiritual heritage impact our daily walk with Christ?

3. How can the example of Tola's leadership inspire us to take on roles of service and influence in our communities?

4. What does the inclusion of lesser-known figures like Puah and Shimron teach us about God's view of significance and value?

5. How can we apply the lessons from the tribe of Issachar to our understanding of community and family within the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 30:18
This verse provides the background of Issachar's birth, highlighting Leah's gratitude to God for her son, which sets the stage for the tribe's future.

Judges 10:1-2
Tola's role as a judge of Israel connects back to his mention in 1 Chronicles 7:1, showing the leadership that emerged from Issachar's lineage.

Numbers 1:28-29
This passage lists the descendants of Issachar during the census in the wilderness, emphasizing the tribe's growth and importance.