More than just a list of names, these blessings from Ya’akov/Yisrael are prophesies that will be fulfilled in the last days and give us insight into the mission of the Messiah. For Issachar, it’s a blessing rather than a curse.
Thought questions
How are these prophesies considered a “blessing” when some of these prophesies appear to be cursings?
Are these blessings about the “hear and now” or about the end of time?
What comes first Genesis or Revelation?
What does it mean that Reuben was “unstable as water”?
How could Zebulun be “safe for ships”? What is Sidon’s claim to fame?
How can being a “safe haven for ships” be dangerous spiritually?
Is Issachar’s blessing a mixed blessing (Lam. 1:20, 2:11, Judges 5:15)? How could “forced labor” be a good thing (Ex. 20:5)?
How do these blessings show us the Messiah?
What is “servile” work? What is an occupation?
What is the "tribute" mentioned in this passage?
Reader: Bill Kastinos. Speaker: Richard Agee.