Asher

Asher was the eighth son of Israel (or 'Jacob') and the second son of Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. He was born in Paddan-aram and was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Asher's descendants formed the tribe of Asher, which was allocated territory in the northern part of Canaan, along the Mediterranean coast. The tribe of Asher was known for its fertile land and abundance of olive oil. In the blessings of Jacob and Moses, Asher was described as being blessed with rich food and providing royal delicacies. During the period of the judges, Asher was criticized for not joining the fight against Sisera. The tribe of Asher was among those taken into Assyrian captivity. In the New Testament, Anna, a prophetess, is mentioned as being from the tribe of Asher. In the book of Revelation, 12,000 from the tribe of Asher are sealed as servants of God.