אַחֲוָה (a.cha.vah)
a.cha.vah
brotherhood
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun achavah denotes a state of kinship or fraternity, deriving its root from the word for brother. It describes the bond of unity that exists between individuals or groups who share a common identity. In the biblical text, this term is rare, appearing only once in the provided sources.
This single occurrence is found in Zechariah 11:14, where it characterizes the broken relationship between Judah and Israel. The prophet uses the word to highlight how the political and spiritual alliance between these two neighboring nations was severed. By breaking this "brotherhood," the imagery underscores a profound loss of unity and mutual support.
Translators typically render achavah as "brotherhood" or "fraternity." The context in Zechariah shows that this is not merely an emotional feeling but a tangible social and political connection. The rupture of this bond serves as a powerful symbol of division within the people of God.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word achavah describes a deep bond of kinship, much like the natural connection between siblings. It is not just a feeling of affection, but a tangible reality of shared identity and mutual support. When this bond exists, it creates a foundation for stability and peace among people who are meant to stand together.
In Zechariah 11:14, we see what happens when this unity is severed. The prophet describes the breaking of the brotherhood between Judah and Israel as a profound loss. This rupture highlights how painful division can be within the community of faith. It reminds us that our connections with others are sacred and should be protected.
For your daily life, this word invites you to value the relationships God has placed in your path. Whether with family or fellow believers, these bonds are meant to reflect unity and care. By nurturing these connections, you participate in a reflection of divine harmony that brings strength and hope to those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ brotherhood1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הָֽ/אַחֲוָ֔ה1×
Key Verses
-
Zechariah 11:14
Then I cut apart my other staff, Union, that I might break the brotherhood between Judah and Israel.
This verse uses the term to describe the specific political and spiritual alliance between Judah and Israel, showing that its breaking represents a tangible rupture in unity rather than just an emotional distance.