The Tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. As the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land of Canaan, the strength and characteristics of each tribe were of significant importance, both for the division of the land and for the military campaigns that lay ahead.

Numerical Strength and Military Prowess

The strength of the Tribe of Issachar is first noted in the census taken in the wilderness, as recorded in the Book of Numbers. At the time of the first census, the men of Issachar who were able to go to war numbered 54,400 (Numbers 1:28-29). By the time of the second census, just before entering Canaan, their numbers had increased to 64,300 (Numbers 26:23-25). This growth in numbers reflects the tribe's vitality and readiness for the challenges of conquest and settlement.

Issachar's military prowess is further highlighted in the blessings and prophecies concerning the tribe. In the Song of Deborah, Issachar is praised for its role in the battle against Sisera: "The princes of Issachar were with Deborah; yes, Issachar was with Barak, sent under his command into the valley" (Judges 5:15). This indicates their willingness to support and engage in critical battles for the nation of Israel.

Territorial Inheritance

Upon entering Canaan, the Tribe of Issachar was allotted a fertile region in the Jezreel Valley, a strategic area known for its agricultural potential. This inheritance is described in Joshua 19:17-23, where the boundaries and cities of Issachar's territory are detailed. The land's fertility would have contributed to the tribe's strength, providing sustenance and resources necessary for growth and stability.

Wisdom and Understanding

Beyond physical strength, the Tribe of Issachar is 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 insight and discernment were crucial for leadership and decision-making, further enhancing the tribe's influence and strength within the nation.

Role in the United Kingdom

During the reign of King David, the Tribe of Issachar played a significant role in supporting the establishment of the united monarchy. Their support is indicative of their strategic importance and the respect they commanded among the tribes of Israel.

In summary, the Tribe of Issachar demonstrated considerable strength upon entering Canaan, both in terms of military capability and wisdom. Their numerical growth, strategic territorial inheritance, and understanding of the times contributed to their prominent role in the early history of Israel.Numbers 26:25
These are the families of Issachar according to those that were numbered of them, three score and four thousand and three hundred.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... local chiefs, heroes to their own immediate tribe, well known in ... O my soul, march
on with strength."Then did ... It gives a mistaken reading, "Issachar with Barak ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Who was Issachar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.org

What are the twelve tribes of Israel? | GotQuestions.org

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