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עׇכְרָן (okh.ran)

okh.ran

Ochran

H5918 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 5 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
5 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Okhran identifies a specific individual in the early wilderness generation, appearing primarily in the book of Numbers as a leader from the tribe of Asher. He is recorded as the father of Pagiel and served as the chieftain representing his clan during the census and tribal arrangements in the desert (Numbers 1:13; 7:40). His role was administrative and representative, placing him within the structured leadership that guided Israel’s journey.

Etymologically, the name is interpreted to mean "troubled" or "distressed." This meaning stands in stark contrast to his position as a stabilizing authority figure for his people. While the sources do not elaborate on personal anecdotes about Okhran, the linguistic root suggests a life marked by hardship or conflict, perhaps reflecting the turbulent conditions of the Exodus era itself.

Okhran appears only five times in Scripture, all within the genealogical and ceremonial records of Numbers. He serves as a historical marker for the tribe of Asher’s contribution to the tabernacle service, rather than a narrative protagonist. His brief mention anchors the tribal lineage in the broader story of Israel’s formation.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Okhran carries a meaning that points toward trouble or distress, yet it is attached to a man who stood as a pillar of order for his tribe. In the chaotic wilderness years, when Israel was learning to trust God’s provision and structure, leaders like Ochran helped maintain stability. His life reminds us that our personal struggles do not disqualify us from serving in positions of responsibility.

Scripture records him primarily as the father of Pagiel, a prince who led the tribe of Asher. This connection shows how family lineage and faithful obedience contribute to the broader community’s worship and organization. Even when life feels turbulent, God uses ordinary people to support His people. We can find comfort in knowing that our contributions, however small they seem, are part of God’s larger plan for His church.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Ocran5×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • עָכְרָֽן\׃4×
  • עָכְרָֽן\׃\ \פ1×

Key Verses

  • Numbers 1:13
    Of Asher: Pagiel the son of Ochran.

    This verse establishes Ochran as the patriarchal anchor for Pagiel, highlighting how tribal identity was rooted in family lineage during the census.

  • Numbers 2:27
    “Those who encamp next to him shall be the tribe of Asher. The prince of the children of Asher shall be Pagiel the son of Ochran.

    Here Ochran’s name signifies the hereditary right of his son to lead Asher, showing that leadership roles were often passed down within established families.

  • Numbers 7:77
    and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old. This was the offering of Pagiel the son of Ochran.

    The offering listed here reflects the specific contributions of Asher’s clan, demonstrating how Ochran’s lineage participated actively in tabernacle worship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Okhran mean?

The name Okhran is interpreted to mean 'troubled' or 'distressed.' This meaning contrasts with his role as a leader, suggesting that personal hardships can coexist with public service and stability.

Who was Ochran in the Bible?

Ochran was a father and patriarch from the tribe of Asher. He is best known as the father of Pagiel, who served as the prince or leader of his tribe during the wilderness journey.

Why is Ochran mentioned in Numbers?

He appears in genealogical and ceremonial records to identify the lineage of Asher’s leadership. His mention helps trace how each tribe contributed to the census and tabernacle offerings.

Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)

Numbers 5 verses
Numbers 1:13

Of Asher: Pagiel the son of Ochran.

Numbers 2:27

“Those who encamp next to him shall be the tribe of Asher. The prince of the children of Asher shall be Pagiel the son…

Numbers 7:72

On the eleventh day Pagiel the son of Ochran, prince of the children of Asher,

Numbers 7:77

and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year…

Numbers 10:26

Pagiel the son of Ochran was over the army of the tribe of the children of Asher.