יִשָּׂשכָר (yis.sa.s.khar)
yis.sa.s.khar
Issachar
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 33 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Issachar identifies the ninth son of Jacob and Leah, as well as the tribe and territory that descended from him. The lexicon sources explain the meaning as "there is recompense" or "he brings a reward," linking the name to the story in Genesis 30 where Leah views his birth as payment for her mandrakes.
This proper noun appears frequently in the historical books, particularly in Numbers and Joshua, where it marks the tribe's census numbers and their specific allotment of land near the Sea of Galilee. The name also surfaces in Chronicles, referring to a Levite doorkeeper and later generations of the family line.
Translators consistently render this Hebrew term as Issachar in English Bibles. The sources note that while the written text suggests "he will bring a reward," the traditional vocalization treats it as if derived from a root meaning "bought with wages." This linguistic detail preserves the narrative connection to Leah’s transactional view of motherhood.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Issachar carries the weight of Leah’s story: she viewed his birth as a divine payment for her sacrifices, interpreting life’s hardships as gifts from God. This perspective invites us to see our own struggles not as random events, but as moments where God is actively providing what we need most. When we feel worn down by the demands of daily life, this name reminds us that God sees our efforts and responds with grace.
In the broader biblical narrative, Issachar represents a tribe known for understanding the times and remaining steadfast in their duties. Their legacy suggests that faithfulness often looks like quiet endurance rather than loud spectacle. We are encouraged to trust that our consistent devotion, even when unnoticed by others, is recorded and valued by God.
Ultimately, this word points to a God who keeps His promises. Just as Leah’s labor resulted in a son she called a reward, our lives are shaped by a Creator who turns our toil into something lasting. We can rest in the assurance that our service matters deeply to Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 33 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Issachar25×
- and/ Issachar4×
- in/ Issachar3×
- for/ Issachar3×
- and/ <on>/ Issachar1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יִשָּׂשכָ֔ר5×
- יִשָּׂשכָ֖ר4×
- יִשָּׂשכָ֑ר3×
- וְ/יִשָּׂשכָ֖ר3×
- לְ/יִ֨שָּׂשכָ֔ר2×
- יִשָּׂשכָֽר\׃2×
- יִשָׂשכָ֖ר2×
- יִשָׂשכָ֑ר2×
- לְ/יִ֨שָׂשכָ֔ר1×
- יִשָּׂשכָר֙1×
- יִשָּׂשכָ֥ר1×
- יִשָּׂשכָ֤ר1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 30:18
Leah said, “God has given me my hire, because I gave my servant to my husband.” She named him Issachar.
This verse establishes the etymology of the name, linking it directly to Leah's belief that God had paid her for giving her servant to Jacob.
-
Judges 5:15
The princes of Issachar were with Deborah. As was Issachar, so was Barak. They rushed into the valley at his feet. By the watercourses of Reuben, there were great resolves of heart.
Here the tribe is celebrated for their decisive alliance with Deborah and Barak, highlighting their role in Israel’s military deliverance.
-
Genesis 49:14
“Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the saddlebags.
Jacob’s prophecy describes Issachar as a strong donkey resting between burdens, illustrating a character defined by endurance and steady labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Issachar mean?
Who was Issachar in the Bible?
What is the significance of Issachar in Judges?
Every Occurrence (33 verses across 9 books)
Genesis 4 verses
Leah said, “God has given me my hire, because I gave my servant to my husband.” She named him Issachar.
Genesis 35:23The sons of Leah: Reuben (Jacob’s firstborn), Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun.
Genesis 46:13The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puvah, Iob, and Shimron.
Genesis 49:14“Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the saddlebags.