The Tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, is descended from Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. Known for their wisdom and understanding of the times (1 Chronicles 12:32), the tribe played a significant role in the history of Israel. During the dedication of the altar, as recorded in the Book of Numbers, the tribe of Issachar made a notable offering, demonstrating their commitment and devotion to the LORD.

The dedication of the altar is detailed in Numbers 7, where each tribe of Israel presented offerings over twelve days. On the second day, the leader of the tribe of Issachar, Nethanel son of Zuar, brought forth the offering. The Berean Standard Bible records this event as follows:

"On the second day Nethanel son of Zuar, the leader of Issachar, drew near. His offering was one silver platter weighing 130 shekels and one silver basin weighing 70 shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel, both filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering; one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; one young bull, one ram, and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering; one male goat for a sin offering; and two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old, to present as a peace offering." (Numbers 7:18-23)

This offering was significant not only for its material value but also for its spiritual symbolism. The silver and gold items represented purity and divine wisdom, while the animals offered for burnt, sin, and peace offerings symbolized atonement, reconciliation, and fellowship with God. The meticulous detail in the description of the offering underscores the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

The tribe of Issachar's offering at the dedication of the altar reflects their understanding of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Their contribution was part of a collective act of worship and dedication by all the tribes, signifying unity and shared purpose in serving the LORD. The offerings from each tribe, including Issachar, were a testament to their faith and commitment to the divine commandments given through Moses.

In the broader narrative of Israel's history, the tribe of Issachar is often associated with wisdom and discernment. Their leaders were known for their ability to understand the times and to know what Israel should do (1 Chronicles 12:32). This characteristic is reflected in their thoughtful and generous offering at the dedication, which was both an act of worship and a demonstration of their role within the nation of Israel.

The offering of the tribe of Issachar at the dedication of the altar is a reminder of the importance of devotion, obedience, and unity in the worship of God. It highlights the tribe's role in the spiritual life of Israel and their contribution to the collective worship and dedication of the nation to the LORD.Numbers 7:18-23
On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

And it came to Pass that the Festival of the Dedication was at ...
... went up to Jerusalem with some men of his own tribe. Now at that time Issachar
[1692] was high priest there ... And when he saw Joachim with his offering among his ...
/.../unknown/the gospel of the nativity of mary/chapter 2 and it came.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... a mistaken reading, "Issachar with Barak;" Issachar having been ... which constituted
the half-tribe of Manasseh ... expressed their gratitude by offering the crown to ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. )
... the blessing of Jacob, in which the tribe of Judah ... why it is that the tribes of Issachar
and Zebulun ... first place: "And he that offered his offering the first ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the blessing of jacob upon.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... isolated districts, and by thus restricting each tribe to a ... achieved at one blow,
the enemy offering an obstinate ... have come to light, but the dedication of one ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

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