אֲחִירַע (a.chi.ra)
a.chi.ra
Ahira
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Achira is a personal name found in the Hebrew Bible, appearing five times within the Book of Numbers. He is identified as the son of Enan and serves as the tribal leader representing Naphtali during the census and wilderness wanderings. The name itself carries the meaning "my brother is evil," a translation that reflects the literal components of the Hebrew words used.
As a chief, Achira’s role was primarily administrative and representative rather than narrative or prophetic. The sources list him among the heads of families who assisted Moses in organizing the tribes. His mentions are confined to genealogical records and lists of leaders, marking his presence in the historical structure of Israel’s journey without offering further biographical detail.
The brevity of his scriptural footprint highlights how many individuals supported the broader community from behind the scenes. While figures like Moses or Joshua drive the main narrative, leaders like Achira provided the necessary order for the tribes to function as a unified group in the wilderness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Achira, meaning 'my brother is evil,' appears in the Book of Numbers as a tribal leader for Naphtali. His story reminds us that God uses ordinary people to hold communities together. While Moses and Joshua often take center stage, leaders like Achira provided the essential order needed for Israel to function as a unified group in the wilderness.
His role was primarily administrative, yet it mattered deeply. By organizing the tribes and offering sacrifices, he helped maintain spiritual and social cohesion during their journey. This shows that faithful service often happens behind the scenes, supporting the broader community without seeking public recognition. God values these quiet acts of stewardship just as much as dramatic miracles.
When we feel unseen in our daily tasks, Achira’s example offers comfort. Whether leading a tribe or managing a household, every act of responsibility contributes to God’s larger plan. We are all part of a tapestry where each thread, no matter how small it seems, holds the whole together.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Ahira4×
- [was] Ahira1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֲחִירַ֖ע5×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 1:15
Of Naphtali: Ahira the son of Enan.”
This verse establishes Achira’s identity as the son of Enan and his official role as the representative of Naphtali during the census.
-
Numbers 7:78
On the twelfth day Ahira the son of Enan, prince of the children of Naphtali,
Here, Achira leads the tribe in offering gifts on the twelfth day, highlighting his active participation in communal worship and provision.
-
Numbers 10:27
Ahira the son of Enan was over the army of the tribe of the children of Naphtali.
This passage confirms his military leadership over Naphtali’s army, showing his responsibility for the tribe's protection and organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Achira in the Bible?
What does the name Achira mean?
Why is Achira mentioned in Numbers?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)
Numbers 5 verses
Of Naphtali: Ahira the son of Enan.”
Numbers 2:29“The tribe of Naphtali: the prince of the children of Naphtali shall be Ahira the son of Enan.
Numbers 7:78On the twelfth day Ahira the son of Enan, prince of the children of Naphtali,
Numbers 7:83and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year…
Numbers 10:27Ahira the son of Enan was over the army of the tribe of the children of Naphtali.