Learn more about Asher

Introduction to Asher

Asher is one of the twelve sons of Jacob and a patriarch of the Israelite tribe that bears his name. Asher’s name, meaning “Happy” or “Blessed” in Hebrew, reflects the joy surrounding his birth. The tribe of Asher played a distinct role in the history of Israel, known for its rich inheritance and contributions to the nation’s collective identity. The blessings and references to Asher in the Bible highlight themes of prosperity, divine favor, and abundance.

Asher Pronunciation

“Asher” is pronounced as ASH-er, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Asher in the Bible

Birth and Name

Asher was the eighth son of Jacob and the second son of Zilpah, Leah’s handmaid. His birth is recorded in Genesis 30:12-13, where Leah declares, “How happy I am! The women will call me happy,” and names him Asher to reflect this sentiment.

Tribe of Asher

The tribe of Asher is prominently mentioned in the allocation of land during the conquest of Canaan:

• Inheritance: Asher’s tribal territory was located in the northern part of Israel, along the Mediterranean coast. It included fertile lands and key trade routes (Joshua 19:24-31).
• Rich Resources: The blessings of Moses and Jacob emphasized Asher’s abundance. Jacob blessed Asher by saying, “Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide delicacies fit for a king” (Genesis 49:20). Moses blessed Asher with strength and favor, declaring, “Let Asher be blessed with children, let him be favored by his brothers, and let him bathe his feet in oil” (Deuteronomy 33:24).

Role in Israel’s History

The tribe of Asher contributed to Israel’s military and cultural life, though its involvement was sometimes limited:

• Judges 1:31-32: The tribe struggled to fully drive out the Canaanites from their allotted territory, resulting in coexistence with the local populations.
• Deborah’s Song: Asher is mentioned as remaining “on the seashore and stayed in its coves” during the battle against Sisera, reflecting its maritime location (Judges 5:17).
• New Testament Reference: Anna the prophetess, from the tribe of Asher, is noted for her piety and role in recognizing Jesus as the Messiah at the temple (Luke 2:36-38).

Asher in Biblical History and Context

Asher’s territory in northern Israel included some of the most fertile and resource-rich areas, contributing to the tribe’s association with abundance and blessing. However, its position along the coast also exposed it to influences from neighboring nations and trade routes. The tribe’s mixed engagement in Israel’s battles and spiritual life reflects the broader dynamics of the northern tribes during the biblical period.

Primary Related Scriptures

• Genesis 30:12-13: The birth and naming of Asher.
• Genesis 49:20: Jacob’s blessing over Asher, highlighting prosperity.
• Deuteronomy 33:24-25: Moses’s blessing over Asher, emphasizing strength and abundance.
• Joshua 19:24-31: The allotment of land to the tribe of Asher.
• Luke 2:36-38: Anna the prophetess, a descendant of Asher, recognizes Jesus as the Messiah.

Theological Significance of Asher

Asher’s blessings and legacy highlight God’s provision and abundance for His people. The tribe’s story underscores the importance of living up to the potential of divine favor, as well as the challenges of faithfully representing God in a land surrounded by external influences. The inclusion of Anna in the New Testament shows the enduring presence and faithfulness of Asher’s descendants in Israel’s spiritual life.

Related Terms and Meanings

- Zilpah: Asher’s mother, Leah’s maidservant. - Anna: A prophetess from the tribe of Asher, who proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. - Jacob’s Blessing: A prophetic statement about Asher’s role in Israel’s prosperity.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Asher

- The name Asher reflects joy and divine favor, themes echoed in the blessings over his tribe. - The phrase “bathe his feet in oil” in Moses’s blessing may reference the olive groves and agricultural richness of Asher’s territory. - Asher’s proximity to the Mediterranean coast allowed for trade and interaction with maritime cultures, influencing its history and development. - The tribe’s failure to fully expel the Canaanites from its territory illustrates the challenges of faithfulness in a culturally diverse region. - Anna, a member of the tribe of Asher, is one of the few women named in the New Testament for her spiritual insight and prophetic role.