Issachar is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. The name "Issachar" is often interpreted to mean "reward" or "man of hire," reflecting Leah's declaration upon his birth: "God has given me my reward because I gave my maidservant to my husband" (Genesis 30:18).

Biblical Narrative:

Issachar is first mentioned in Genesis 30:17-18, where his birth is recorded. He is later listed among the sons of Jacob who went to Egypt (Genesis 46:13). In Jacob's blessing of his sons, Issachar is described metaphorically: "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" (Genesis 49:14-15). This imagery suggests a tribe that would be industrious and content with its lot, yet also subject to servitude.

Territory and Role:

The tribe of Issachar was allocated a fertile region in the Jezreel Valley, as described in Joshua 19:17-23. This area was known for its agricultural productivity, aligning with the tribe's association with labor and prosperity. The tribe played a significant role in Israel's history, particularly during the time of the judges and the monarchy. In the Song of Deborah, the tribe of Issachar is praised for its support of Barak against Sisera (Judges 5:15).

Characteristics and Legacy:

Issachar is often associated with 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." This characteristic has been interpreted as an ability to discern and act wisely according to God's will.

Asher

Asher is another of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after the eighth son of Jacob, born to Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The name "Asher" means "happy" or "blessed," reflecting Leah's joy at his birth: "How happy I am! For the women will call me happy" (Genesis 30:13).

Biblical Narrative:

Asher is first mentioned in Genesis 30:12-13. He is also listed among the sons of Jacob who went to Egypt (Genesis 46:17). In Jacob's blessing, Asher is promised prosperity: "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide royal delicacies" (Genesis 49:20). This blessing suggests a future of abundance and influence.

Territory and Role:

The tribe of Asher was allotted a coastal territory in the northern part of Canaan, as described in Joshua 19:24-31. This region included fertile lands and access to trade routes, contributing to the tribe's prosperity. Despite its potential, the tribe of Asher struggled to fully drive out the Canaanite inhabitants, as noted in Judges 1:31-32.

Characteristics and Legacy:

Asher is often associated with abundance and blessing. Moses' blessing of the tribe highlights this: "Most blessed of sons is Asher; let him be favored by his brothers, and let him dip his foot in oil" (Deuteronomy 33:24). This imagery of oil suggests wealth and prosperity. The tribe's legacy is one of contentment and blessing, though it is less prominent in the biblical narrative compared to other tribes.

Both Issachar and Asher are integral parts of the twelve tribes of Israel, each contributing uniquely to the history and spiritual heritage of the nation. Their accounts reflect themes of labor, wisdom, prosperity, and blessing, as they played their roles in the unfolding narrative of God's people.