Who was Isuah?
Isuah (Hebrew: יְשׁוּאָה, Yeshuah), meaning “salvation” or “he will save,” was a descendant of Issachar, one of the sons of Jacob. His name is recorded in the genealogical listings of the tribe of Issachar in 1 Chronicles 7:1:
“The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, Jashub and Shimron—four in all.” (1 Chronicles 7:1, NIV)
While Isuah is not directly named in the Masoretic Hebrew text of 1 Chronicles 7:1 in modern translations, some older English versions or textual traditions may refer to a variant or alternate spelling, possibly linked with the names of Issachar’s sons mentioned elsewhere, such as in Genesis 46:13 and Numbers 26:23-24. In these genealogies, variations of names like Jashub or Job appear, and some traditions have proposed “Isuah” as a variant or a scribal tradition arising from these lists.
This possibility arises because the Hebrew consonants for some names are similar, and over centuries of copying manuscripts, names such as Ishuah, Ishvah, and Ishuai have been noted as variants in other tribal genealogies (e.g., Genesis 46:17, 1 Chronicles 7:30).
Biblical References and Cross-References
While Isuah is not extensively mentioned in Scripture, the genealogical context in which he is placed offers a valuable insight into biblical history and the theological importance of lineage:
- 1 Chronicles 7:1 – Records the sons of Issachar.
- Genesis 46:13 – Lists the sons of Issachar who came to Egypt with Jacob.
- Numbers 26:23-24 – Lists the clans descended from Issachar during the wilderness census.
Given the textual variations and transliterations across time, it is possible that Isuah is another rendering or an alternate tradition connected with Issachar‘s sons, possibly aligning with Jashub or Job.
The Role of Genealogies in the Bible
Though Isuah is only mentioned briefly or indirectly, his presence in the genealogical records reminds us of the importance the Bible places on ancestry, family lines, and covenant identity. These genealogies are not mere historical lists; they affirm God’s faithfulness to His people through every generation. Each name recorded is a testament to God‘s ongoing covenant with Israel, from the patriarchs down to the time of Christ.
What This Means for Today’s Christians
To the modern reader, a name like Isuah—obscure and possibly a textual variant—might seem insignificant. However, in the divine narrative, no name is meaningless. The inclusion of every tribe, clan, and individual in the inspired genealogies demonstrates that God sees and knows His people, even those whom history forgets.
This should be an encouragement to believers today. In Christ, our identity is known, secure, and written in the Book of Life (Revelation 20:12). Just as the names of Israel’s sons were carefully recorded, so too are the names of those who belong to the household of faith.
How Isuah’s Line Points to Jesus and the Gospel
The genealogies of the tribes of Israel ultimately find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ. As recorded in Matthew 1 and Luke 3, Jesus descended from Abraham and David, fulfilling the messianic promises. While the tribe of Issachar is not directly in the line of Jesus, it plays a vital role in preserving the covenant family of Israel. Every tribe, every name, and every descendant contributed to the preservation and testimony of God’s people, out of whom came the Savior of the world.
The name Isuah, meaning “salvation,” prophetically aligns with the mission of Jesus—Yeshua, the One who saves His people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). Even if the man Isuah remains obscure, his name reminds us of the greater salvation God has provided through His Son.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. God’s Faithfulness Across Generations
God keeps His promises to families and tribes over time. The genealogies testify to His unwavering covenant commitment.
2. Significance of Every Person in God’s Plan
Even seemingly minor figures have value in God’s purposes. Their mention in Scripture is a declaration that God sees and records every life.
3. Names That Point to Salvation
Biblical names often carry theological weight. Isuah, meaning “salvation,” reflects the broader theme of God‘s redemptive work.
4. Unity of the Old and New Testaments
Genealogies like that of Issachar connect the patriarchal promises to the gospel fulfillment in Jesus. They bridge the Testaments and affirm the coherence of Scripture.
Reflection Questions
- How do the genealogies of Scripture encourage you about your own place in God’s plan?
- What does the meaning of Isuah’s name—“salvation”—teach you about God’s priorities?
- Do you sometimes feel “unnoticed” in your faith journey? How does Isuah’s mention in Scripture challenge that feeling?
- How can we grow in appreciating the Old Testament roots of our New Testament faith?
Though the figure of Isuah may be veiled in history, his name and lineage shine a quiet light on God’s redemptive story—a story that culminates in Jesus, the true Salvation for all people.