Topical Encyclopedia Isshi'jah, also spelled Isshiah, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. He is noted as a descendant of the tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name Isshi'jah means "Jehovah will lend" or "man of Jehovah," reflecting the theophoric nature of many Hebrew names, which often include a reference to God.Biblical References: 1. 1 Chronicles 7:3-5 : Isshi'jah is listed in the genealogies of the tribe of Issachar. The passage states: "The sons of Uzzi: Izrahiah. The sons of Izrahiah: Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Isshiah—all five of them were chiefs. Along with them, by their generations, according to their fathers’ houses, were 36,000 troops of the army for battle, for they had many wives and sons." This reference places Isshi'jah as a leader or chief among his people, indicating a position of authority and responsibility within the tribe. 2. 1 Chronicles 23:20 : Isshi'jah is also mentioned in the context of the Levitical duties. The verse reads: "The sons of Uzziel: Micah the first, and Isshiah the second." Here, Isshi'jah is identified as a Levite, which suggests his involvement in the religious and ceremonial life of Israel, particularly in the service of the tabernacle and later the temple. Role and Significance: Isshi'jah's role as a leader among the descendants of Issachar highlights the importance of tribal leadership in ancient Israel. The tribes were not only familial units but also military and administrative entities, each contributing to the collective identity and strength of the nation. As a chief, Isshi'jah would have been responsible for the welfare and organization of his people, particularly in times of conflict. His mention among the Levites in 1 Chronicles 23 suggests a dual role, both as a tribal leader and as a participant in the religious life of Israel. The Levites were set apart for specific duties related to worship and the maintenance of the tabernacle, and later the temple, which was central to Israelite worship and community life. Theological Implications: Isshi'jah's inclusion in the genealogies and his roles reflect the broader biblical themes of leadership, service, and the covenant relationship between God and His people. The genealogies in Chronicles serve to connect the post-exilic community with their ancestral past, emphasizing continuity and faithfulness to God's promises. Isshi'jah, as a leader and a Levite, embodies the integration of civic and religious responsibilities, underscoring the holistic nature of Israelite identity and worship. In summary, Isshi'jah is a figure who represents the intertwining of leadership, service, and faithfulness within the community of Israel. His presence in the biblical record, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and the unfolding narrative of God's people. Concordance Isshi'jah (1 Occurrence)Ezra 10:31 Thesaurus Isshi'jah (1 Occurrence)Isshi'jah. Isshijah, Isshi'jah. Issue . Multi-Version Concordance Isshi'jah (1 Occurrence). Ezra 10:31 And of the sons of Harim: Eliezer ... /i/isshi'jah.htm - 6k Isshijah (1 Occurrence) Issue (59 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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