Why Issachar Came Before Reuven: A Powerful Lesson From Parashat Naso

“And on the second day, Netanel son of Tzuar, leader of Issachar, brought his offering” (Numbers 7:18).

The very first tribal leader to bring an offering at the dedication of the Mishkan was Nachshon son of Amminadav from the tribe of Judah. He merited this honor because of his greatness and courage. Our sages teach that he was the one who jumped into the Sea of Reeds before everyone else, demonstrating complete faith in Hashem.

After Judah, we might naturally expect the offerings to continue according to the order of the tribes. If so, the next tribe should have been Reuven, the firstborn.

So why was the tribe of Issachar chosen to go next?

Why Issachar Came Before Reuven

The Ohr HaChaim HaKadosh explains that the tribe of Issachar was known for its dedication to Torah learning. Because Issachar was a tribe of Torah scholars, it was honored and elevated above the others, even before Reuven, the firstborn.

The Ohr HaChaim writes:

“The tribe of Issachar was brought forward first; because it was a tribe of Torah, its tribe was elevated and preceded Reuven the firstborn.”

This teaches us how greatly Torah learning uplifts a person and brings honor to those who devote themselves to it.

Why Zevulun Also Came Before Reuven

Even more remarkable is what came next. After Issachar came the tribe of Zevulun, while Reuven still had not yet brought his offering.

Why was Zevulun given this special place?

Because Zevulun supported Issachar’s Torah learning.

The famous partnership between Issachar and Zevulun is one of the great models in Judaism. Issachar devoted itself to Torah study, while Zevulun supported them materially and financially. In this way, Zevulun shared in the merit of the Torah being learned.

The Ohr HaChaim points to the verse in Deuteronomy: “Rejoice, Zevulun, in your departure, and Issachar in your tents.” Zevulun earned honor because it helped make Torah learning possible.

The Honor Given to Torah

From here we learn a beautiful and timeless lesson about the importance of honoring Torah and those who dedicate themselves to it.

Respect for Torah scholars is a central value in Judaism. When a community values Torah learning and honors those who devote themselves to it, it strengthens the community’s connection to Torah and helps ensure that Torah values continue for future generations.

The tribe of Issachar teaches us about the greatness of Torah study, while Zevulun teaches us the greatness of supporting it. Both were given special honor because of their connection to Torah.