Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies opens up layers of meaning that enrich our interpretation of the Scriptures. The Greek word Ἰσσαχάρ (Issachar) is particularly significant as it relates to the name of a prominent tribe of Israel. Rooted in Hebrew tradition and culture, Issachar’s name carries a weight of historical, cultural, and spiritual significance that reflects the unique character and role of this tribe among the twelve tribes of Israel. Exploring this word can provide insights into both New Testament usage and broader ancient Jewish culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ἰσσαχάρ, transliterated as Issachar [is-SAH-khar].
• Etymology: The word originates from the Hebrew root יִשָּׂשכָר (Yissaskar), which is generally interpreted to mean “there is recompense” or “man of hire.” The name is believed to be composed of two elements: “yesh” meaning “there is,” and “sachar,” meaning “reward” or “hire.”
• Part of Speech: Proper noun, masculine.
• Grammatical Details: Declined as a proper noun in Greek, it does not follow typical declension patterns. Proper names in Greek generally remain unchanged in various cases, with slight variations in endings.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Issachar: The name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for their understanding of the times and their roles in various tasks, as described in the Old Testament.
• Man of Hire: Refers to the etymological meaning relating to labor, wages, or recompense.

Similar Words: Ἰσραήλ (Israēl) [is-rah-AYL], meaning “Israel,” is another proper noun that, like Ἰσσαχάρ, refers to one of the tribes of Israel and carries significant historical and spiritual connotations. However, Ἰσραήλ is used more broadly to refer to the entire nation or people, while Ἰσσαχάρ is specific to a single tribe.

Further Insights: Ἰσσαχάρ is treated as a proper noun and does not follow the typical declension rules seen with common nouns or adjectives in Greek. Therefore, it retains its form across various grammatical cases. The name has a Hebrew origin, which influences its direct transliteration into Greek. Below is a table showing the simplified grammatical usage of the name in Greek:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines Ἰσσαχάρ as a proper noun referring to one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The entry also explains that Issachar is often characterized by their role in various agricultural and labor-oriented tasks, aligning with the etymological meaning of “man of hire.”

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon provides the definition of Ἰσσαχάρ as “there is recompense,” noting that the name also signifies the tribe’s diligence in work and their wisdom in understanding the times. Thayer’s highlights the significance of Issachar’s role in ancient Israelite society.

Vines: Vines Dictionary of New Testament Words provides a brief description of Ἰσσαχάρ as the name of one of the sons of Jacob and Leah, and thus one of the tribes of Israel. Vines also emphasizes the etymological components of the name, “reward” or “hire,” linking it to the tribe’s characterization in biblical narratives.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon defines Ἰσσαχάρ primarily as a proper noun, a personal and tribal name within Jewish tradition, and focuses on its transliteration from Hebrew into Greek. It points out that the term is used strictly in biblical contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance (G2466) provides the entry Ἰσσαχάρ, describing it as the proper name for one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Strong’s emphasizes its etymological background related to reward or hire and identifies the term as a Hebrew word transliterated into Greek.

Related Scripture References

• Revelation 7:7: “Of the tribe of Issachar (Ἰσσαχάρ) were sealed twelve thousand.”
• Luke 3:30: In the genealogy of Jesus, Issachar (Ἰσσαχάρ) is listed as part of the lineage.
• 1 Chronicles 12:32 (Septuagint reference): “And of the children of Issachar (Ἰσσαχάρ), which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of Ἰσσαχάρ (G2466)

The Greek word Ἰσσαχάρ (Issachar) represents one of the twelve tribes of Israel, derived from the Hebrew word meaning “there is recompense” or “man of hire.” Issachar is known for their laborious nature and understanding of the times, which is reflected in various Old Testament narratives and genealogical references in the New Testament. The term appears in both the New Testament and the Septuagint, emphasizing its importance in Jewish tradition and Christian theology. Understanding the meaning and usage of Ἰσσαχάρ enhances our grasp of the biblical narrative and the role that this tribe played in Israel’s history.

Did You Know?

• The tribe of Issachar was known for its wisdom and understanding of the times, which is why they are often described as having the ability to discern what Israel should do.
• According to Jewish tradition, the tribe of Issachar had a special relationship with the tribe of Zebulun, where Zebulun provided for Issachar’s material needs while Issachar focused on studying and teaching the Torah.
• The name Issachar reflects the idea of work, reward, and understanding, making it a significant name in the context of Israel’s labor and spiritual discernment.

Exploring the depth and meaning of Ἰσσαχάρ provides valuable insights into the biblical text, enhancing our understanding of its historical, cultural, and spiritual significance.