עָכָר (a.khar)
a.khar
Achan
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name עָכָר (akhar), appearing in one verse of 1 Chronicles, is an alternative spelling of the more common form עָכָן (Achan, H5912). It refers to a man from the tribe of Judah who lived during the period before Israel established its monarchy. The name itself carries the meaning "troubler," which aligns closely with the narrative associated with this figure.
This individual is best known for his role in the events at Jericho, as recorded in Joshua 7. He violated a specific divine command by taking devoted items from the city that were meant to be destroyed. This act of disobedience brought severe consequences upon him and his household, marking him as a cautionary figure in biblical history. The variation in spelling between akhar and Achan reflects common textual variations found in ancient Hebrew manuscripts.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Achar appears briefly in 1 Chronicles 2:7, where he is identified as "the troubler of Israel." This title recalls the serious events recorded in Joshua 7, when he took items that were set apart for destruction. His actions brought judgment not only on himself but also on the entire community, showing how personal choices can have wide-reaching effects.
While this story highlights the weight of obedience, it also reminds us that our history includes both failures and grace. The Bible does not hide these difficult moments; instead, it uses them to teach about integrity and the importance of trusting God’s commands. We are encouraged to examine our own lives, seeking to honor God in small and large decisions alike.
This passage invites reflection on how we handle what is entrusted to us. It calls for honesty and reverence, knowing that God sees all things. May we learn from these accounts to walk with wisdom and humility, finding strength in His guidance rather than our own understanding.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Achar1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עָכָר֙1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 2:7
The son of Carmi: Achar, the troubler of Israel, who committed a trespass in the devoted thing.
This verse serves as a genealogical record that preserves the title 'troubler of Israel,' linking this individual directly to the narrative of disobedience at Jericho.