1 Chronicles 12:32

And of the children of Issachar, [which were men] that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them [were] two hundred; and all their brethren [were] at their commandment.

And of the children {H1121} of Issachar {H3485}, which were men that had understanding {H998}{H3045} of the times {H6256}, to know {H3045} what Israel {H3478} ought to do {H6213}; the heads {H7218} of them were two hundred {H3967}; and all their brethren {H251} were at their commandment {H6310}.

Of the descendants of Yissakhar, men who understood the times and knew what Isra'el ought to do, there were 200 leaders, and all their kinsmen were under their command.

From Issachar, men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do: 200 chiefs with all their kinsmen at their command.

And of the children of Issachar, men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 12:32 (KJV)

The tribe of Issachar, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 12:32, stands out among the many tribes who rallied to David at Hebron to make him king. This verse specifically highlights a unique and invaluable characteristic of the men from this tribe, particularly their leaders, making them crucial assets during a pivotal moment in Israel's history.

Context

First Chronicles Chapter 12 details the various warriors, leaders, and men of valor who came to David, pledging their allegiance and support as he ascended to the throne of Israel. This gathering at Hebron marked a significant transition, consolidating David's power and uniting the tribes under his leadership after the death of Saul. Amidst skilled archers, slingers, and mighty men, the men of Issachar are distinguished not by their physical prowess in battle, but by their profound wisdom and discernment. This account emphasizes that effective leadership and national stability require more than just military strength; they also demand strategic foresight and spiritual insight.

Key Themes

  • Discernment and Wisdom: The primary characteristic of the children of Issachar was their "understanding of the times." This refers to their ability to accurately interpret the prevailing circumstances—political, social, and spiritual—and grasp God's overarching plan for Israel. They possessed not merely knowledge, but practical wisdom to apply that knowledge effectively.
  • Strategic Leadership: Their understanding was not abstract; it was geared "to know what Israel ought to do." This implies a capacity for strategic thinking and providing actionable counsel. In a period of transition and potential instability, such guidance was invaluable for national direction and unity.
  • Influence and Authority: The fact that "the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment" underscores their respected authority and the tribe's unity. Their wisdom earned them the trust and obedience of their people, demonstrating effective leadership that flowed from insight. This unity was vital for David's new kingdom, as seen in the broader context of David being made king at Hebron.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "understanding of the times" in Hebrew is binah l'ittim (בִּינָה לָעִתִּים). The word binah signifies deep understanding, discernment, and insight, often implying the ability to distinguish between things and grasp the underlying meaning. Ittim refers to "times" or "seasons," but it carries a broader connotation than just chronological periods. It implies recognizing opportune moments, significant periods, and the divine providences at play within those times. It suggests an awareness of God's timing and purpose, which is a crucial aspect of biblical wisdom, often spoken of in Proverbs as the principal thing.

Practical Application

The example of the children of Issachar provides a timeless lesson for believers today. In a world full of change and uncertainty, there is a profound need for spiritual discernment—the ability to "understand the times" from a biblical perspective. This involves:

  • Spiritual Insight: Seeking God's wisdom through prayer and His Word to understand current events and cultural trends not just superficially, but in light of His eternal purposes.
  • Wise Decision-Making: Applying this understanding to know "what we ought to do" in our personal lives, families, churches, and communities. It calls for strategic thinking that aligns with God's will.
  • Influential Leadership: Whether in formal leadership roles or as individuals, our discernment can provide valuable guidance to others, fostering unity and purposeful action within the body of Christ. Just as Issachar's leaders guided their brethren, we too are called to be lights that guide others toward righteousness and truth, often through renewing our minds to discern God's will.

This verse encourages us to cultivate a deep understanding of God's Word and His ongoing work in the world, enabling us to act with wisdom and purpose in every season.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ephesians 5:17 (16 votes)

    Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].

  • Luke 12:56 (14 votes)

    [Ye] hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?

  • Luke 12:57 (14 votes)

    Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?

  • Esther 1:13 (13 votes)

    Then the king said to the wise men, which knew the times, (for so [was] the king's manner toward all that knew law and judgment:

  • Isaiah 33:6 (12 votes)

    And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, [and] strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD [is] his treasure.

  • Matthew 16:3 (11 votes)

    And in the morning, [It will be] foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O [ye] hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not [discern] the signs of the times?

  • Ecclesiastes 7:19 (10 votes)

    Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty [men] which are in the city.