Genesis 49:14

KJV

Issachar [is] a strong ass couching down between two burdens:

KJV (with Strong's)

Issachar {H3485} is a strong {H1634} ass {H2543} couching down {H7257} between two burdens {H4942}:

Complete Jewish Bible

"Yissakhar is a strong donkey lying down in the sheep sheds.

Berean Standard Bible

Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the sheepfolds.

American Standard Version

Issachar is a strong ass, Couching down between the sheepfolds:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jacob's prophecy for Issachar depicts him as a strong, enduring donkey willing to bear burdens, symbolizing a tribe characterized by physical stamina, diligence, and a preference for settled agricultural prosperity, even if it meant accepting tribute or a less prominent role among the tribes of Israel.

### CONTEXT
Genesis 49 records the prophetic blessings and pronouncements of Jacob (also known as Israel) upon each of his twelve sons just before his death. These pronouncements are not mere wishes but serve as a prophetic blueprint, often foretelling the future character, destiny, and geographical settlement of the tribes that would descend from them. Each son's blessing reflects unique aspects of their personality or significant events in their lives, hinting at the role their tribe would play in the nation of Israel. This particular verse focuses on Issachar, Jacob's ninth son, born to Leah. This passage should be understood within the larger narrative of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, establishing the foundational identity and future of the nation of Israel through these twelve sons. For a comprehensive look at Jacob's final words, explore the entire chapter starting from [Genesis 49:1](/genesis/49-1 "Jacob's prophetic blessings").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Jacob's prophecy for his ninth son, Issachar, paints a vivid picture: "Issachar [is] a strong ass couching down between two burdens." This imagery, drawn from the common agricultural life of the ancient Near East, immediately conveys the tribe's defining characteristics. The "strong ass" (Hebrew: *ḥămōr gā́rēm*, meaning 'strong-boned donkey') highlights physical robustness and an inherent capacity for arduous labor. Donkeys were indispensable beasts of burden, known for their resilience and ability to carry heavy loads over challenging terrain, suggesting the tribe of Issachar would be marked by its physical stamina and endurance.

The phrase "couching down" (Hebrew: *rōbēṣ*) depicts a posture of rest or submission, indicating a willingness to settle or accept a load. For Issachar, this implies a disposition to embrace hard work, pay tribute, or even accept a subordinate position for the sake of peace, agricultural prosperity, or a comfortable existence. This choice suggests a preference for quiet industry and the fruits of their labor over military conquest or political prominence, contrasting with the more aggressive prophecies given to tribes like Dan ([Genesis 49:16](/genesis/49-16 "Dan's character")) or Gad ([Genesis 49:19](/genesis/49-19 "Gad's character")).

The "two burdens" could be literal saddlebags or metaphorical. Geographically, Issachar's territory was fertile, situated between the Jezreel Valley and the hills of Galilee, perhaps alluding to the land's bounty or the demands placed upon it. Metaphorically, it represents the various forms of labor or tribute the tribe would willingly bear. This willingness to bear burdens, though seemingly humble, ultimately allowed Issachar to thrive agriculturally and later gain a reputation for wisdom and understanding of the times ([1 Chronicles 12:32](/1_chronicles/12-32 "Sons of Issachar's wisdom")).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
* **Divine Sovereignty in Tribal Destiny:** Jacob's prophecies demonstrate God's foreknowledge and sovereign plan for the twelve tribes, shaping their character, territory, and role within the nation of Israel.
* **Value of Diligence and Endurance:** The depiction of Issachar underscores the biblical value placed on hard work, perseverance, and the willingness to bear one's share of responsibility within a community.
* **Diversity within God's People:** Just as each son had a unique character and destiny, the passage illustrates that God uses diverse gifts and dispositions within His people, where quiet industry is as vital as leadership or military prowess.
* **The Cost of Comfort vs. Calling:** While prosperity is a blessing, Issachar's willingness to "couch down" serves as a subtle caution against prioritizing ease to the point of compromising independence or divine calling, highlighting the tension between security and spiritual freedom.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The prophecy concerning Issachar offers profound insights for believers today. It underscores the honor found in diligence and perseverance, reminding us that faithful, quiet labor is as valuable in God's eyes as more prominent roles. Just as Issachar found prosperity through enduring work, we are called to bear our own burdens and contribute to the common good, recognizing that every part of the body of Christ is essential. However, the image also presents a subtle caution: while peace and comfort are desirable, an excessive pursuit of ease can lead to compromise. Believers must discern when to stand firm in their convictions and when to humbly serve, drawing wisdom from the example of Issachar's descendants who understood the times and knew what Israel ought to do ([1 Chronicles 12:32](/1_chronicles/12-32 "Issachar's wisdom")).

### FAQ
**Why is Issachar described as a "strong ass"?**

Answer: The description "strong ass" (Hebrew: *ḥămōr gā́rēm*) emphasizes the tribe's physical robustness, endurance, and capacity for hard labor. In the ancient Near East, donkeys were vital for carrying heavy loads and traversing difficult terrain, symbolizing a tribe that would be characterized by its diligence and ability to bear burdens.

**Does "couching down between two burdens" imply weakness or servitude for Issachar?**

Answer: While it can suggest a willingness to accept tribute or a less prominent role, it doesn't necessarily imply weakness. Rather, it highlights Issachar's pragmatic choice to prioritize agricultural prosperity and a settled life. They were willing to work hard and bear responsibilities, which allowed them to thrive in their fertile territory. Later, the tribe was known for its wisdom, suggesting their quiet diligence fostered understanding rather than weakness ([1 Chronicles 12:32](/1_chronicles/12-32 "Issachar's understanding")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jacob's prophecy for Issachar primarily concerns the tribal destiny within the nation of Israel, it subtly points to principles fulfilled in Christ. Issachar's willingness to bear burdens prefigures Christ, who willingly took upon Himself the ultimate burden of humanity's sin, becoming the suffering servant who "bore our griefs and carried our sorrows" ([Isaiah 53:4](/isaiah/53-4 "Christ's suffering")). Furthermore, just as Issachar found prosperity through humble labor, believers in Christ are called to a life of diligent service and humility, recognizing that true strength is found not in worldly power but in self-sacrificial love and obedience to God's will, following the example of the One who came not to be served, but to serve ([Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Christ came to serve")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.