Genesis 49:14 - “Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the saddlebags.
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What does "Genesis 49:14" mean?
Genesis 49 is a collection of Jacob's blessings (or prophetic pronouncements) upon his twelve sons. Understanding the meaning of the blessing upon Issachar, "Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the saddlebags," requires considering several layers:
The Donkey (Chamor): Donkeys in ancient times were beasts of burden, symbols of strength, but also of service and submission. "Strong donkey" implies resilience and an ability to endure hard work.
Lying Down Between Saddlebags (Mishpetayim): This is the most debated part. The word "mishpetayim" is often translated as "sheepfolds," "cattle pens," or "saddlebags." Each interpretation affects the overall meaning:
Sheepfolds/Cattle Pens: This suggests Issachar would settle in a fertile, agricultural land, enjoying ease and prosperity as a result of their hard work and dedication to the land. They would choose a comfortable, relatively passive existence in their rich territory.
Saddlebags: Saddlebags represent the burden of labor and taxes. This can mean two things:
Bearing Burdens: Issachar would be a tribe willing to bear the burdens of others, possibly through trade or service. They would be known for their ability to carry the load for their neighbors.
Submission: They might be willing to submit to foreign rule in exchange for peace and security. This is supported by the following verse (Genesis 49:15), which speaks of their willingness to "bow his shoulder to bear, and become a servant unto tribute."
Overall Interpretation: The verse likely points to a tribe known for its physical strength, its dedication to the land (primarily agriculture), and its inclination toward a peaceful and settled existence, even if it meant submission or bearing burdens. They would choose comfort and ease over constant conflict. They may have been content to pay tribute to avoid war and maintain their prosperity.
Historical Context: Historically, the tribe of Issachar settled in a fertile region in the Jezreel Valley. They were known for their understanding of the times and seasons (1 Chronicles 12:32), suggesting they were shrewd and pragmatic in their decision-making. This aligns with the idea of them understanding the benefits of submission for the sake of peace and prosperity.
In summary, the verse suggests:
Issachar was strong and capable.
They valued peace, security, and prosperity.
They were willing to bear burdens or submit to foreign rule in order to maintain their comfortable lifestyle in their fertile land.
The exact nuance depends on how you interpret "mishpetayim," but the overall picture is of a tribe choosing practicality and comfort over constant warfare.
Genesis 49:14 - “Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the saddlebags.
What does "Genesis 49:14" mean?
Genesis 49 is a collection of Jacob's blessings (or prophetic pronouncements) upon his twelve sons. Understanding the meaning of the blessing upon Issachar, "Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between the saddlebags," requires considering several layers:
The Donkey (Chamor): Donkeys in ancient times were beasts of burden, symbols of strength, but also of service and submission. "Strong donkey" implies resilience and an ability to endure hard work.
Lying Down Between Saddlebags (Mishpetayim): This is the most debated part. The word "mishpetayim" is often translated as "sheepfolds," "cattle pens," or "saddlebags." Each interpretation affects the overall meaning:
Sheepfolds/Cattle Pens: This suggests Issachar would settle in a fertile, agricultural land, enjoying ease and prosperity as a result of their hard work and dedication to the land. They would choose a comfortable, relatively passive existence in their rich territory.
Saddlebags: Saddlebags represent the burden of labor and taxes. This can mean two things:
Bearing Burdens: Issachar would be a tribe willing to bear the burdens of others, possibly through trade or service. They would be known for their ability to carry the load for their neighbors.
Submission: They might be willing to submit to foreign rule in exchange for peace and security. This is supported by the following verse (Genesis 49:15), which speaks of their willingness to "bow his shoulder to bear, and become a servant unto tribute."
Overall Interpretation: The verse likely points to a tribe known for its physical strength, its dedication to the land (primarily agriculture), and its inclination toward a peaceful and settled existence, even if it meant submission or bearing burdens. They would choose comfort and ease over constant conflict. They may have been content to pay tribute to avoid war and maintain their prosperity.
Historical Context: Historically, the tribe of Issachar settled in a fertile region in the Jezreel Valley. They were known for their understanding of the times and seasons (1 Chronicles 12:32), suggesting they were shrewd and pragmatic in their decision-making. This aligns with the idea of them understanding the benefits of submission for the sake of peace and prosperity.
In summary, the verse suggests:
Issachar was strong and capable.
They valued peace, security, and prosperity.
They were willing to bear burdens or submit to foreign rule in order to maintain their comfortable lifestyle in their fertile land.
The exact nuance depends on how you interpret "mishpetayim," but the overall picture is of a tribe choosing practicality and comfort over constant warfare.