יִשָּׂשכָר

יִשָּׂשכָר

Jissaskar, a son of Jacob

Definition

יִשָּׂשכָר (Yissâˢkâr) is the name of the ninth son of Jacob, born to Leah (Genesis 30:18). He became the patriarch of the Israelite tribe of Issachar, which was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe is notably described as 'a strong donkey' who would bear burdens and submit to forced labor, yet also find rest in the pleasant land (Genesis 49:14-15). In later biblical history, the tribe of Issachar is often noted for its wisdom and understanding of the times (1 Chronicles 12:32).

Biblical Usage

The name is used exclusively as a proper noun in the Old Testament, referring to the individual patriarch or his tribe. It appears in genealogical lists (Genesis 35:23, 1 Chronicles 7:1-5), tribal censuses (Numbers 1:28-29, Numbers 26:23-25), and territorial allotments (Joshua 19:17-23). A key pattern is its association with the tribe's role and character, particularly in Jacob's blessing (Genesis 49:14-15) and the description of its men as understanding their times (1 Chronicles 12:32).

Etymology

The name derives from the Hebrew roots נָשָׂא (nāśā’, H5375, 'to bear, carry') and שָׂכָר (śāḵār, H7939, 'hire, wages, reward'). Leah explicitly connects the name to this etymology at his birth, saying, 'God has given me my wages' (Genesis 30:18). Thus, the name means 'he will bring a reward' or 'there is reward,' reflecting the context of Leah's perceived compensation from God for giving her maidservant to Jacob.

Semantic Range

The name and tribe of Issachar highlight themes of divine providence and reward in the midst of human struggle, as seen in Leah's narrative. The tribe's portrayal in Jacob's blessing (Genesis 49:14-15) presents a complex picture of servitude and rest, which can reflect Israel's historical experiences. Their noted wisdom in 1 Chronicles 12:32 illustrates how a tribe can contribute to national leadership through discernment, a valued spiritual quality. Understanding the name's meaning ('he brings reward') enriches reading by connecting personal stories of hardship (Leah's) to God's faithful provision. In the ancient Near Eastern context, names were often descriptive or declarative, capturing a moment or a hope. Leah's naming of Issachar directly reflects her personal and social circumstance—vying for her husband's affection in a polygamous household. The tribe's later characterization as understanding 'the times' (1 Chronicles 12:32) may indicate a reputation for astronomical or calendrical knowledge, important for agriculture and religious festivals, setting them apart as counselors. No direct synonyms as a proper name. Related tribal patriarch names: זְבוּלֻן (Zebulun, H2074) — Issachar's full brother, also born to Leah. יוֹסֵף (Yosēp̄, H3130) — Another son of Jacob, but from Rachel, whose tribes (Ephraim & Manasseh) often held different political roles.

Word Details