ISSAR Origin of surname
ISSAR
Surnames derive from one of many different origins. Sometimes there may be more than one explanation for the same name. This family name is a patronymic surname based on a male ancestor's personal name, in this case of biblical origin. Issar is a variant of Issachar, meaning "man of reward", the name of the ninth son of Jacob and of a Jewish tribe. Being compared to "a strong-boned ass" (Genesis 49.14), Issachar became a symbol of hard work and strength. Because 'ass' and 'donkey' were derisive terms in Europe, Jews living there replaced it with another animal embodying great strength and endurance, the bear, whose old German name is linked to 'man, hero and prince'. Some forms of Issachar, like Isser, Issar and their variants, are also associated with Israel, the name given to Jacob after his struggle with the angel (Genesis 32.28). Isserlein, a German diminutive of Isser, which can be a form of Issachar as well as Israel, is documented in the 15th century. The closely related Isserles is recorded in 16th century Poland.
Distinguished bearers of the Jewish family name Issar include the 19th century Polish rabbi and author, Jehuda Ben Nechemija Issar.
Surnames derive from one of many different origins. Sometimes there may be more than one explanation for the same name. This family name is a patronymic surname based on a male ancestor's personal name, in this case of biblical origin. Issar is a variant of Issachar, meaning "man of reward", the name of the ninth son of Jacob and of a Jewish tribe. Being compared to "a strong-boned ass" (Genesis 49.14), Issachar became a symbol of hard work and strength. Because 'ass' and 'donkey' were derisive terms in Europe, Jews living there replaced it with another animal embodying great strength and endurance, the bear, whose old German name is linked to 'man, hero and prince'. Some forms of Issachar, like Isser, Issar and their variants, are also associated with Israel, the name given to Jacob after his struggle with the angel (Genesis 32.28). Isserlein, a German diminutive of Isser, which can be a form of Issachar as well as Israel, is documented in the 15th century. The closely related Isserles is recorded in 16th century Poland.
Distinguished bearers of the Jewish family name Issar include the 19th century Polish rabbi and author, Jehuda Ben Nechemija Issar.