September Birthstone Sapphire & The tribe of Issachar

As we embrace the month of September, we are drawn to the stunning beauty of its birthstone, the sapphire. Known for its deep, celestial blue, the sapphire has long been cherished for more than just its aesthetic appeal. In biblical tradition, the sapphire is a symbol of wisdom, truth, faithfulness, and even divine prophecy. This precious gemstone is also linked to the tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for their unique understanding and discernment. In biblical times, it was one of the most esteemed gemstones, often associated with royalty and the divine.

The Bible mentions sapphires on several occasions, highlighting their value and significance. Jewish tradition holds that the Ten Commandments were inscribed on tablets made of sapphire, emphasizing the stone's association with divine truth and moral law.

The breastplate of Aaron, the High Priest of Israel, described in Exodus 28, was a sacred garment that featured twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones were not merely decorative; they were integral to the priestly role of interceding on behalf of the people and seeking God's guidance.

Traditionally, the sapphire is linked to the tribe of Issachar. The deep blue of the sapphire reflects the tribe's wisdom, which was recognized throughout Israel. Issachar's descendants were known for their understanding of the times and their ability to discern what Israel should do, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:32:

"From the tribe of Issachar, there were 200 leaders of the tribe with their relatives. All these men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take."

The tribe of Issachar was not only wise but was also believed to be endowed with a the gift of prophecy—a gift that was symbolized by the sapphire. Prophecy, in biblical terms, is more than just foretelling the future; it is deeply connected to the wisdom and discernment that comes from the Holy Spirit. The sapphire, with its clarity and depth, symbolizes the unclouded vision and understanding that comes from divine revelation.

This gift is available to all Christ followers who believe in the gifts of the Holy Spirit, receive it and pursue it in faith. Just as the sapphire was a key component of the High Priest's breastplate, used in seeking divine direction, it also represents the spiritual clarity and truth that come from the Holy Spirit’s prophetic gifts. The Holy Spirit grants wisdom and insight to those who seek God's guidance. Acts 2:17-18 (NIV) says:

"In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy."

There hasn't been a time when Issachar leaders were more needed. This world needs prophetic leaders who understand the signs of the times and know the best course for the Nations to take. Seek to embody the wisdom and discernment that the tribe of Issachar was known for, and be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your life. Let the sapphire inspire you to pursue truth and to cultivate a deep, prophetic understanding of the times we live in. Shop inspiring sapphire jewelry here.