The Tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, traces its lineage to Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. As part of the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the descendants of Issachar were allotted a portion of the Promised Land, Canaan, during the conquest led by Joshua.

Geographical Allotment:

The territory assigned to the Tribe of Issachar is detailed in the Book of Joshua. According to Joshua 19:17-23 , the inheritance of Issachar was situated in the fertile region of the Jezreel Valley, a strategic and agriculturally rich area. The boundaries of Issachar's land included several key cities and landmarks, providing the tribe with both agricultural and strategic advantages.

The passage states: "The fourth lot came out for Issachar, according to their clans. Their territory included: Jezreel, Kesulloth, Shunem, Hapharaim, Shion, Anaharath, Rabbith, Kishion, Ebez, Remeth, En-gannim, En-haddah, and Beth-pazzez. The border touched Tabor, Shahazumah, and Beth-shemesh, and ended at the Jordan—sixteen cities, along with their villages."

Significance of the Territory:

The land of Issachar was known for its agricultural productivity, particularly in the Jezreel Valley, which was one of the most fertile areas in ancient Israel. This region was crucial for the sustenance and economic prosperity of the tribe. The presence of key cities such as Jezreel and Shunem also highlights the strategic importance of Issachar's territory, as these locations were significant in various biblical narratives.

Role and Characteristics:

The Tribe of Issachar is often noted for its 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 underscores the tribe's role in providing guidance and leadership within the broader context of the Israelite confederation.

Historical Context:

Throughout biblical history, the Tribe of Issachar played a role in various events. During the period of the Judges, the tribe participated in the battles led by Deborah and Barak against the Canaanite king Jabin, as recorded in Judges 5:15 : "The princes of Issachar were with Deborah; yes, Issachar was with Barak, sent under his command into the valley."

In the united monarchy under King David, the tribe continued to contribute to the leadership and military efforts of Israel. The strategic location and agricultural wealth of Issachar's territory made it a valuable asset to the nation.

Conclusion:

The allotment of land to the Tribe of Issachar reflects both the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs and the strategic and economic importance of the region within the land of Israel. The tribe's legacy of wisdom and understanding, coupled with its fertile inheritance, underscores its significant role in the history and development of the Israelite nation.Joshua 19:17-23
And the fourth lot came out to Issachar, for the children of Issachar according to their families.
Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 17:10,11
Southward it was Ephraim's, and northward it was Manasseh's, and the sea is his border; and they met together in Asher on the north, and in Issachar on the east.
Nave's Topical Index

Book 5 Footnotes
... by all the twelve tribes together, and parting it into seven parts, the part ... [3]
These words of Josephus concerning the tribe of Issachar, who foreknew what ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/book 5 footnotes.htm

Chapter xlix
... of the tribes: of Judah the lion, of Issachar the strong ... It strikes us that at least
two parts of Jacob's ... the characteristics of "the Lion of the tribe of Judah ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlix.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Judah, who subsequently played such important parts, were at ... Judah, Levi, and Simeon;
while Issachar, Asher, Naphtali ... War broke out between one tribe and another ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... backbone subdivides it into isolated districts, and by thus restricting each tribe
to a ... Cities in other parts of the world, it is true, have rivalled Babylon ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

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