Asher is one of the twelve sons of Jacob (also called Israel) and is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). Here's his role:
* Son of Jacob: Asher was the eighth son of Jacob and the second son of Zilpah, who was the maidservant of Leah.
* Founder of a Tribe: Asher is the progenitor of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known as the Tribe of Asher. The tribe was allocated land in the northwestern part of Canaan, known for its fertile soil and abundance.
* Blessings from Jacob and Moses: In Genesis 49, Jacob blesses his sons before his death. Asher's blessing focuses on prosperity and richness of food: "Asher's food is rich; he provides delicacies fit for kings." (Genesis 49:20). Moses later reiterates this blessing in Deuteronomy 33:24-25, associating Asher with olive oil and iron and bronze fortifications.
In summary, Asher's importance lies in being one of the twelve sons of Jacob, the founder of the Tribe of Asher, and the recipient of blessings related to prosperity and abundance.