Genesis 49:15

KJV

And he saw that rest [was] good, and the land that [it was] pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he saw {H7200} that rest {H4496} was good {H2896}, and the land {H776} that it was pleasant {H5276}; and bowed {H5186} his shoulder {H7926} to bear {H5445}, and became a servant {H5647} unto tribute {H4522}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On seeing how good is settled life and how pleasant the country, he will bend his back to the burden, and submit to forced labor.

Berean Standard Bible

He saw that his resting place was good and that his land was pleasant, so he bent his shoulder to the burden and submitted to labor as a servant.

American Standard Version

And he saw a resting-place that it was good, And the land that it was pleasant; And he bowed his shoulder to bear, And became a servant under taskwork.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 49:15 presents Jacob's prophetic declaration over his son Issachar, foretelling a tribal character deeply rooted in a desire for peace and the enjoyment of fertile land. This blessing describes Issachar as perceiving "rest" as good and the "land" as pleasant, indicating a profound appreciation for tranquility and agricultural prosperity. Consequently, the tribe is depicted as willing to "bow his shoulder to bear" burdens and become "a servant unto tribute," suggesting a pragmatic acceptance of labor or taxation to secure their desired comfort and maintain their valuable inheritance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 49 records Jacob's final, divinely inspired pronouncements over his twelve sons, delivered just before his death. These blessings are not mere well-wishes but prophetic insights into the future character, destiny, and geographical allocations of the tribes descending from each son. Each son's prophecy often reflects their past actions, their mother's influence, or a symbolic representation of their future tribal identity. For instance, Judah receives a prophecy of kingship and leadership, while Dan is likened to a serpent. Issachar's blessing, nestled among these diverse prophecies, contrasts sharply with the more aggressive or leadership-oriented tribes, highlighting a unique tribal disposition focused on stability and agricultural wealth. The overall chapter serves as a foundational text for understanding the subsequent roles and characteristics of the tribes of Israel throughout their history.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, land was the primary source of wealth and security. Fertile ground was highly coveted, as it ensured sustenance and prosperity for a tribal group. The concept of "tribute" (Hebrew: _mas_) was common, referring to forced labor, taxes, or levies imposed by a dominant power on a subordinate group, often in exchange for peace or protection. Tribes or city-states might choose to pay tribute rather than engage in costly and destructive warfare, especially if their primary interest was agriculture and a settled life. The tribe of Issachar would eventually settle in the fertile Jezreel Valley (also known as the Plain of Esdraelon), a strategically important and highly productive agricultural region. This geographical reality aligns perfectly with Jacob's prophecy, as control of such a desirable area often came with the necessity of defending it or submitting to stronger neighbors for peace.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 49:15 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it illustrates the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Tribal Destiny**, showing how God, through Jacob's prophetic words, outlines the future paths of the Israelite tribes, even their inherent characteristics and inclinations. Secondly, it highlights the **Value of Land and Rest**, portraying the deep human desire for a secure, productive, and peaceful existence, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative concerning the [Promised Land](/genesis/12-7 "God's promise of land to Abraham"). Thirdly, the verse subtly introduces the **Tension Between Freedom and Security**, as Issachar's pursuit of comfort leads to a willingness to compromise autonomy for the sake of peace and prosperity. This theme is further explored in Israel's history, where the desire for security often led to alliances or subjugation, sometimes at the expense of their covenantal distinctiveness, as seen in various periods of foreign domination referenced in [the book of Judges](/judges/1 "The early history of the Judges"). Lastly, it touches on the theme of **Labor and Stewardship**, depicting a tribe deeply connected to the land through their willingness to "bear" its burdens, reflecting a pragmatic approach to their God-given inheritance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rest (Hebrew, _mᵉnûwchâh'_):** This term (H4496) signifies more than mere cessation from labor; it denotes a settled dwelling, a place of quiet, security, and stability. It implies a deep desire for a peaceful, established existence, a sense of being at ease and comfortable in one's abode. For Issachar, this "rest" was not just a physical state but a cherished condition of life, a state of tranquility and unhindered enjoyment of their surroundings.
* **Pleasant (Hebrew, _nâʻêm'_):** This word (H5276) describes something agreeable, delightful, or beautiful. When applied to the land, it suggests that Issachar found their inheritance not merely productive but inherently appealing, satisfying, and enjoyable. This aesthetic and experiential appreciation for the land contributed significantly to their desire to remain undisturbed and cultivate its bounty.
* **Tribute (Hebrew, _maç'_):** This term (H4522) refers to a burden, specifically a tax in the form of forced labor or compulsory service. It denotes a levy imposed by a superior power, often for public works or as a sign of subjugation. For Issachar, becoming a "servant unto tribute" meant accepting these burdensome demands, whether in labor or taxation, as a pragmatic means to secure their desired peace and agricultural prosperity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he saw that rest [was] good":** This clause reveals Issachar's core inclination and perception. The "he" refers to Issachar (the progenitor, representing the tribe). "Saw" (H7200, _râʼâh_) implies not just physical sight but discernment and appreciation. Issachar perceived and valued _menuchah_ (rest, quiet, security) as _ṭôwb_ (good, beneficial, desirable). This establishes their fundamental priority: a settled, peaceful existence.
* **"and the land that [it was] pleasant":** This expands on the reason for their desire for rest. The land itself, their inheritance, was _nâʻêm_ (pleasant, delightful, agreeable). This indicates a deep satisfaction with their territorial portion, likely referring to the fertile plains they would inhabit. The beauty and productivity of their land reinforced their desire for a tranquil life free from conflict.
* **"and bowed his shoulder to bear":** This is a vivid and powerful **metaphor** for accepting a burden or submitting to labor. The "shoulder" (H7926, _shᵉkem_) is the place where yokes are placed for carrying heavy loads. To "bow" (H5186, _nâṭâh_) one's shoulder to "bear" (H5445, _çâbal_) signifies a willing submission to hard work, responsibility, or even servitude. It portrays Issachar as ready to endure strenuous demands.
* **"and became a servant unto tribute":** This clause describes the consequence of their priorities. To "become a servant" (H5647, _ʻâbad_, meaning to work or serve) implies a state of servitude or subjugation. "Unto tribute" (H4522, _maç_) specifies the nature of this service: forced labor or taxation. This suggests that Issachar would be willing to pay heavy taxes or perform compulsory service for stronger powers, or even internal authorities, if it meant preserving their peace and enjoying their prosperous land, rather than engaging in conflict for absolute independence.

#### Literary Devices
Jacob's prophecy for Issachar makes effective use of **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**. The imagery of "bowing his shoulder to bear" is a potent **metaphor**, likening Issachar to a strong, docile beast of burden, such as an ox, submitting to a yoke. This symbolizes the tribe's readiness to accept arduous labor or imposed burdens. The "rest" and "pleasant land" **symbolize** the tribe's core values and the material blessings they would inherit. The contrast between the desire for comfort and the willingness to endure servitude creates a subtle **juxtaposition**, highlighting the pragmatic, perhaps even complacent, character of Issachar. This prophetic utterance functions as a **prognostication**, foretelling the future disposition and historical trajectory of the tribe.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 49:15 offers profound theological insights into the nature of human desire, the blessings of land, and the potential pitfalls of prioritizing comfort. While God provides good gifts like rest and fertile land, Issachar's response reveals a human tendency to value these earthly blessings above all else, even at the cost of freedom or a higher calling. This raises questions about true rest, which the Bible often portrays as spiritual peace and security found in God alone, rather than in material circumstances. The tribe's willingness to accept "tribute" for the sake of ease serves as a cautionary tale, reminding believers that the pursuit of earthly comfort can lead to compromises that diminish spiritual vitality or distract from divine purpose. It challenges us to discern what burdens we are willing to bear and for what ultimate purpose, contrasting Issachar's earthly pragmatism with a call to courageous faith and unwavering commitment to God's kingdom.

* [Psalm 37:7](/psalms/37-7 "Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness")
* [Hebrews 4:9-11](/hebrews/4-9-11 "The promise of Sabbath rest for God's people")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 49:15 serves as a powerful mirror for contemporary believers, prompting us to critically examine our own priorities and the compromises we might make for the sake of comfort and security. In a world that often glorifies ease and material prosperity, Issachar's story challenges us to ask: What do we consider "good" and "pleasant" in our lives, and what are we willing to "bow our shoulder" to bear—or avoid—to maintain that comfort? Are we, like Issachar, at risk of accepting burdens or submitting to systems that diminish our spiritual freedom, compromise our convictions, or distract us from God's higher calling, simply to preserve a comfortable existence? This verse encourages a profound self-awareness, urging us to consider whether our pursuit of "rest" is rooted in God's peace or in fleeting earthly tranquility. True rest and fulfillment are not found in the absence of all burdens or in material abundance, but in faithful obedience to Christ and a willingness to bear His yoke, which is light, for the sake of eternal purposes. It calls us to cultivate a spirit of discernment, ensuring that our desire for peace does not lead to spiritual complacency or a neglect of courageous action when God calls us to stand for truth and righteousness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "rest" or "pleasant land" (i.e., comforts, securities, possessions) do I prioritize in my life?**
* **What burdens or "tribute" (i.e., compromises, silent acquiescence, unfulfilling labor) am I willing to accept to maintain my comfort or security?**
* **How might my pursuit of earthly ease hinder my spiritual growth or willingness to embrace God's calling, especially if it involves discomfort or sacrifice?**
* **In what ways can I seek true spiritual rest in Christ, rather than relying solely on external circumstances for peace and contentment?**

### FAQ

**What does "servant unto tribute" mean for the tribe of Issachar?**

Answer: "Servant unto tribute" (Hebrew: _maç ʻâbad_) refers to compulsory labor, forced service, or taxation imposed by a ruling power. For Issachar, it suggests that they would willingly submit to such burdens or levies from stronger nations or internal authorities in exchange for the peace and security needed to enjoy their fertile land and agricultural prosperity. It implies a pragmatic decision to avoid conflict by accepting a subordinate role, rather than fighting for complete autonomy. This characteristic is seen in later Israelite history, where various tribes, including Issachar, sometimes paid tribute to foreign powers to avoid invasion or maintain their agricultural output, as referenced in [1 Kings 9:21](/1_kings/9-21 "Solomon's forced labor tribute").

**Did Issachar's choice to "bow his shoulder" make them weak or unfaithful?**

Answer: The text does not explicitly label Issachar as weak or unfaithful, but it does highlight a distinctive characteristic. Their choice reflects a pragmatic approach, prioritizing agricultural wealth and peace over military prowess or political independence, which contrasted with other tribes. While it allowed them to prosper materially, it also exposed them to potential subjugation. However, later biblical accounts show Issachar contributing to Israel's leadership and military efforts. For example, [1 Chronicles 12:32](/1_chronicles/12-32 "Men of Issachar who understood the times") praises men of Issachar as having "understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do," indicating wisdom and strategic insight. This suggests that their character was complex and evolved, not solely defined by this initial prophecy, and that their pragmatism could also manifest as wisdom and a willingness to contribute where their strengths lay.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Issachar "bowed his shoulder to bear" tribute for earthly comfort and the enjoyment of a pleasant land, Christ uniquely fulfills and transforms this imagery by willingly bowing His shoulder to bear the ultimate burden: the sin of humanity and the cross of Calvary. Unlike Issachar, who sought earthly rest and security through submission to human powers, Jesus' submission was to the perfect will of His Father, leading not to worldly comfort but to eternal redemption and true spiritual rest for all who believe. He became the ultimate "servant unto tribute," paying the ultimate "tribute" or ransom for our sins, as foretold in [Isaiah 53:4-7](/isaiah/53-4-7 "Christ's suffering and sacrifice for our sins"). Through His voluntary suffering and death, Jesus liberates us from the bondage of sin and death, offering a rest that transcends any earthly peace or prosperity. He invites all who are weary and burdened to [come to Him and find rest for their souls](/matthew/11-28-30 "Jesus' invitation to the weary and burdened"), a rest that is not found in avoiding burdens but in taking up His light yoke and learning from Him. His kingdom is not of this world, and His followers are called to bear burdens for His sake, not for fleeting comfort, but for eternal glory and the advancement of His righteous reign.

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.

Cross-References

Psalms 81:6

I removed his shoulder from the burden: his hands were delivered from the pots.

Ezekiel 29:18

Son of man, Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon caused his army to serve a great service against Tyrus: every head [was] made bald, and every shoulder [was] peeled: yet had he no wages, nor his army, for Tyrus, for the service that he had served against it:

2 Samuel 7:1

¶ And it came to pass, when the king sat in his house, and the LORD had given him rest round about from all his enemies;

Matthew 23:4

For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay [them] on men's shoulders; but they [themselves] will not move them with one of their fingers.

Judges 3:11

And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died.

Joshua 14:15

And the name of Hebron before [was] Kirjatharba; [which Arba was] a great man among the Anakims. And the land had rest from war.