אַחֵר (a.cher)
a.cher
another
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 146 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The Hebrew word acher means "another" or "other," indicating something distinct from what came before. It functions as an adjective describing a second person, thing, or time that follows a first. In Genesis 17:21, for example, it marks the "following year," showing its basic sense of sequence and difference.
This term carries significant theological weight when applied to deities. The prophets frequently use it in the phrase "other gods" to describe idols that Israel was forbidden to worship (Deuteronomy 6:14; Jeremiah 7:18). In these contexts, acher highlights the danger of turning away from Yahweh toward foreign powers. It is not merely a neutral descriptor but often implies a rival or a deviation from the covenant.
Its root suggests something that follows or comes after. This etymological link reinforces its use in narratives where events unfold sequentially, such as the next day or the subsequent generation. Translators typically render it simply as "other," though the Hebrew carries a nuance of being distinct and separate from the primary subject.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word acher simply means "another" or "other," pointing to something distinct from what came before. In daily life, this distinction helps us understand sequence and difference. When Genesis describes Isaac digging another well, it marks a new attempt after previous conflicts. This ordinary usage reminds us that God often works through repeated efforts and new opportunities, even when circumstances seem repetitive.
However, the word carries deeper weight in spiritual contexts. The prophets use it to warn against "other gods," highlighting the danger of turning away from Yahweh toward foreign powers. Here, acher is not neutral; it implies a rival that divides loyalty. This usage invites us to examine where our trust lies. Are we holding fast to the One who is sufficient, or are we seeking security in things that cannot save?
Ultimately, this word teaches us about faithfulness and focus. It calls us to recognize the uniqueness of God’s covenant and to avoid the distraction of idols. Whether in the simple passage of time or the serious matter of worship, acher challenges us to choose wisely. May you find peace in knowing that your God is worthy of all your devotion.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 146 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- other69×
- another51×
- <the>/ other7×
- others4×
- to/ others3×
- and/ another3×
- [the] other3×
- to/ another2×
- another [person]2×
- for/ another1×
- another [woman]1×
- and/ to/ others1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֲחֵרִ֔ים25×
- אֲחֵרִ֑ים13×
- אַחֵ֔ר10×
- אַחֵֽר\׃9×
- אֲחֵרִֽים\׃9×
- אֲחֵרִ֖ים9×
- אַחֵ֑ר8×
- אַחֵ֖ר6×
- אֲחֵרִים֙5×
- אַחֶ֔רֶת4×
- וְ/אַחֵ֣ר3×
- אַחֵר֙3×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 20:3
“You shall have no other gods before me.
This verse establishes the foundational command against idolatry, using acher to define any deity other than Yahweh as forbidden.
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Genesis 26:22
He left that place, and dug another well. They didn’t argue over that one. So he called it Rehoboth. He said, “For now Yahweh has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land.”
Here, the word marks a new well that brings peace, showing how God provides space and resolution after previous strife.
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Numbers 14:24
But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and has followed me fully, him I will bring into the land into which he went. His offspring shall possess it.
Caleb is described as having another spirit, indicating a distinct character of loyalty that sets him apart from the rebellious generation.
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Genesis 30:24
She named him Joseph, saying, “May Yahweh add another son to me.”
Rachel names her son Joseph, asking for another son, which highlights the human desire for continuation and divine blessing in family life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word acher mean?
How is acher used in the context of idolatry?
Does acher always imply a negative comparison?
Every Occurrence (146 verses across 26 books)
Genesis 15 verses
Adam knew his wife again. She gave birth to a son, and named him Seth, saying, “for God has given me another child…
Genesis 8:10He waited yet another seven days; and again he sent the dove out of the ship.
Genesis 8:12He waited yet another seven days, and sent out the dove; and she didn’t return to him any more.
Genesis 17:21But I will establish my covenant with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you at this set time next year.”
Genesis 26:21They dug another well, and they argued over that, also. So he called its name Sitnah.
Genesis 26:22He left that place, and dug another well. They didn’t argue over that one. So he called it Rehoboth. He said, “For now…
Genesis 29:19Laban said, “It is better that I give her to you, than that I should give her to another man. Stay with me.”
Genesis 29:27Fulfill the week of this one, and we will give you the other also for the service which you will serve with me for…
Genesis 29:30He went in also to Rachel, and he loved also Rachel more than Leah, and served with him seven more years.
Genesis 30:24She named him Joseph, saying, “May Yahweh add another son to me.”
Genesis 37:9He dreamed yet another dream, and told it to his brothers, and said, “Behold, I have dreamed yet another dream: and…
Genesis 41:3Behold, seven other cattle came up after them out of the river, ugly and thin, and stood by the other cattle on the…
Genesis 41:19and behold, seven other cattle came up after them, poor and very ugly and thin, such as I never saw in all the land of…
Genesis 43:14May God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may release to you your other brother and Benjamin. If I am…
Genesis 43:22We have brought down other money in our hand to buy food. We don’t know who put our money in our sacks.”