The Tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. The inheritance of the tribe was determined during the division of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, as recorded in the Book of Joshua. The boundaries of Issachar's territory are detailed in Joshua 19:17-23.

Geographical Location:

The land allotted to the Tribe of Issachar was situated in the northern part of the central region of Canaan. It was bordered by the tribes of Zebulun to the north, Manasseh to the south and west, and Naphtali to the northeast. This strategic location provided Issachar with fertile land, which was ideal for agriculture and livestock, contributing to the tribe's prosperity.

Key Cities and Landmarks:

The territory of Issachar included several significant cities and landmarks. Joshua 19:17-23 lists the cities within Issachar's inheritance: "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 boundary touched Tabor, Shahazumah, and Beth-shemesh, and ended at the Jordan—sixteen cities, along with their villages."

Notable Features:

1. Jezreel Valley: The Jezreel Valley, a prominent feature within Issachar's territory, was known for its fertile plains. This area became a significant agricultural hub, producing abundant crops and supporting the tribe's economy.

2. Mount Tabor: Located on the northern boundary, Mount Tabor was a notable landmark. It later became a site of military significance and religious importance in Israel's history.

3. Shunem: This city is mentioned in the context of several biblical narratives, including the account of Elisha and the Shunammite woman (2 Kings 4:8-37).

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Tribe of Issachar is often associated with wisdom and understanding of the times. In 1 Chronicles 12:32, the men of Issachar are described as those "who understood the times and knew what Israel should do." This reputation for discernment and strategic insight played a role in the tribe's influence within the nation of Israel.

Issachar's territory, with its fertile lands and strategic location, allowed the tribe to thrive agriculturally and economically. The tribe's ability to adapt and prosper in their allotted inheritance is a testament to their resourcefulness and the blessings bestowed upon them as part of the covenantal promises to the descendants of Jacob.Joshua 19:17-23
And the fourth lot came out to Issachar, for the children of Issachar according to their families.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... The lot given to each tribe is described ... and her handmaid received as their inheritance
the regions ... Four of the less important tribes, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... isolated districts, and by thus restricting each tribe to a ... Egypt preferred not to
meddle in their affairs. ... remembrance of it kept them within bounds for years ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

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