1 Chronicles 2:7

KJV

And the sons of Carmi; Achar, the troubler of Israel, who transgressed in the thing accursed.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of Carmi {H3756}; Achar {H5917}, the troubler {H5916} of Israel {H3478}, who transgressed {H4603} in the thing accursed {H2764}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Karmi: 'Akhar [troubler], who troubled Isra'el by violating the rule concerning things set aside to be destroyed.

Berean Standard Bible

The son of Carmi: Achar, who brought trouble upon Israel by violating the ban on devoted things.

American Standard Version

And the sons of Carmi: Achar, the troubler of Israel, who committed a trespass in the devoted thing.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 2:7, strategically placed within the extensive genealogies of Judah, serves as a stark and deliberate interruption to highlight the infamous transgression of Achar. This verse uniquely identifies him as "the troubler of Israel" due to his violation of the divine ban on accursed things, thereby reminding readers that even within the most esteemed lineages, individual sin carries profound consequences for the entire community and stands as a perpetual warning against disobedience and its devastating impact.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated in the opening chapters of 1 Chronicles (chapters 1-9), which are almost entirely dedicated to genealogies. Following the universal lineage from Adam (chapter 1), the Chronicler meticulously traces the descendants of Israel, focusing heavily on the tribe of Judah in chapter 2, from whom King David and the messianic line would emerge. Amidst these typically terse lists of names, the explicit and detailed mention of Achar's sin in 1 Chronicles 2:7 is highly unusual and intentional. It breaks the rhythmic flow of names to underscore a significant theological point, demonstrating that the Chronicler is not merely recording ancestry but also preserving vital moral and historical lessons for his post-exilic audience, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience even within the covenant community and the importance of national purity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Achar's transgression is the Israelite conquest of Canaan under Joshua, specifically the aftermath of the miraculous victory at Jericho. God had commanded that all spoils from Jericho were *cherem* (חֵרֶם), meaning "devoted" or "accursed" – set apart exclusively for God, either for utter destruction or for consecration to the tabernacle treasury. Violating this ban was not merely theft; it was a profound sacrilege, an act of rebellion against divine authority, and a direct breach of the covenant. In ancient Israelite society, there was a strong concept of corporate solidarity, where the actions of one individual, especially a leader or a representative, could impact the entire community, leading to collective blessing or judgment. Achar's sin, therefore, was seen as a corporate offense, bringing divine wrath upon the entire nation, resulting in their defeat at Ai, as detailed in [the full account of Achan's sin in Joshua 7](/joshua/7 "Joshua 7 - Achan's Sin and Israel's Defeat at Ai").
* **Key Themes:** 1 Chronicles 2:7 contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in the Chronicler's work. First, it powerfully illustrates the **gravity of sin and its consequences**, demonstrating that disobedience to God's specific commands, particularly regarding holiness, has severe repercussions not only for the individual but also for the entire community. Achar's actions led to Israel's defeat at Ai and the subsequent judgment, underscoring that individual transgression can have [far-reaching and severe consequences](/joshua/7-25 "Joshua 7:25 - The Stoning of Achan"). Second, it highlights the principle of **corporate responsibility** or solidarity within the covenant community, where the sin of one member can bring trouble upon the whole. This theme is central to understanding Israel's relationship with God and His covenant faithfulness. Third, the inclusion of this narrative detail within a genealogy underscores the idea of **genealogy as a moral record**, not just a dry list of names. It serves as a perpetual warning against disobedience and greed, ensuring that the lessons from Israel's past failures, like [Achan's transgression at Jericho](/joshua/7-1 "Joshua 7:1 - Achan's Sin"), are preserved and remembered for future generations, emphasizing the importance of covenant fidelity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Achar (Hebrew, _'Akar'_ H5917):** This name is a deliberate and significant wordplay on his original name, Achan (עָכָן, _'Akan'_), both deriving from the Hebrew root _'akar_ (עכר, H5916), meaning "to trouble, disturb, or afflict." The Chronicler's choice to use "Achar" rather than "Achan" is a pointed theological commentary, immediately identifying him as "the troubler" of Israel. This linguistic choice emphasizes not just his identity but the profound negative impact of his actions on the entire nation, making his name a perpetual reminder of the chaos and judgment he brought upon the community.
* **Transgressed (Hebrew, _mâʻal'_ H4603):** From a primitive root meaning "to cover up," this verb is used figuratively to describe acting covertly or treacherously. It implies a breach of trust or a violation of a sacred duty, often in a hidden or deceptive manner. Achar's act was not an open rebellion but a secret theft and appropriation of what was forbidden, highlighting the insidious nature of sin and the fact that even hidden transgressions are known to God and have public consequences. This term underscores the deceitful and disloyal nature of his actions against God's explicit command.
* **Thing Accursed (Hebrew, _chêrem'_ H2764):** This Hebrew term refers to something "devoted" to God, often for complete destruction or utter separation from common use. In the context of holy war (like Jericho), items under *cherem* were considered consecrated to God, forbidden for personal gain or plunder. Violating the *cherem* was an act of sacrilege, a direct affront to God's holiness and sovereignty, implying a theft from God Himself. Achar's transgression was not merely a breach of military protocol but a profound theological offense, demonstrating a lack of faith and obedience to divine command, and a disregard for God's exclusive claim over the spoils of Jericho.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of Carmi; Achar":** This phrase continues the genealogical listing of Judah's descendants through Zerah and Carmi. The abrupt introduction of "Achar" (instead of a simple list of names) immediately signals a break in the pattern, drawing the reader's attention to a specific, significant individual whose story transcends a mere lineage entry. It highlights the Chronicler's selective use of genealogical material to convey moral and theological truths, emphasizing that not all names are merely listed; some carry a specific, enduring lesson.
* **"the troubler of Israel":** This descriptive epithet directly links Achar's identity to the devastating consequence of his actions. It is a titular designation, marking him as the one responsible for bringing calamity and divine judgment upon the entire nation of Israel. This phrase encapsulates the corporate impact of individual sin, where one person's disobedience can disrupt the peace and well-being of the entire community, leading to defeat and divine disfavor.
* **"who transgressed in the thing accursed":** This clause precisely identifies the nature of Achar's sin: violating the *cherem*, the divine ban on the spoils of Jericho. It points to a specific act of disobedience against God's explicit command, emphasizing the seriousness of infringing upon God's holy decrees. The brevity of this statement assumes the reader's familiarity with the detailed account in [Joshua 7](/joshua/7 "Joshua 7 - Achan's Sin and its Consequences"), serving as a concise, powerful summary of a pivotal moment in Israel's early history that had profound national repercussions.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several potent literary devices in 1 Chronicles 2:7. The most prominent is **Wordplay**, where the name "Achar" (עָכָר, _'Akar'_) is deliberately chosen to echo the Hebrew verb _'akar_ (עכר), meaning "to trouble" or "to disturb." This linguistic connection immediately identifies him as "the troubler of Israel," making his very name a constant reminder of his infamous deed and its devastating impact. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Ellipsis** and **Allusion**, as it does not recount the full story of Achar's sin but rather alludes to it, assuming the reader's knowledge of the detailed narrative in [Joshua 7](/joshua/7 "Joshua 7 - The Full Account of Achan's Sin"). This brevity serves to emphasize the lasting impact and notoriety of the event, highlighting its significance without needing to re-narrate it. The inclusion of such a negative, detailed moral note within a genealogy, which is typically a dry list of names, functions as a powerful **Parenthetical Remark** or **Interruption**, drawing immediate attention to the gravity of the transgression and the Chronicler's purpose in highlighting moral lessons for his audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 2:7 profoundly underscores the sanctity of God's commands and the pervasive nature of sin. It reveals that God's holiness demands absolute obedience, and any transgression, even if seemingly hidden or individual, can have far-reaching consequences that ripple through families and communities. The concept of *cherem* highlights God's sovereignty over all things, particularly in the context of covenant relationship, where His people are called to trust His provision and obey His specific instructions regarding what is set apart for Him. Achar's story serves as a stark reminder that God sees all, and that accountability is an inescapable aspect of His divine economy, emphasizing that true blessing comes through faithful adherence to His will, while disobedience brings trouble and judgment.

* [Joshua 7:1-26](/joshua/7-1-26 "Joshua 7:1-26 - The Full Narrative of Achan's Sin and Its Consequences")
* [Deuteronomy 7:26](/deuteronomy/7-26 "Deuteronomy 7:26 - Warning Against Accursed Things")
* [1 Corinthians 5:6](/1_corinthians/5-6 "1 Corinthians 5:6 - The Leaven of Sin Spreads")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brief, pointed mention of Achar in 1 Chronicles 2:7 serves as a timeless cautionary tale, reminding us that our individual choices carry weight far beyond our immediate perception. It challenges us to consider the ripple effect of our actions, both good and bad, on our families, communities, and even future generations. Achar's sin was rooted in covetousness and a disregard for God's explicit command, leading to corporate suffering. This calls us to cultivate radical integrity, especially in areas where we might be tempted to compromise or act in secret. It compels us to examine our hearts for hidden sins, understanding that true accountability is not just to human authorities but ultimately to God, who sees all. The passage underscores that obedience, even in seemingly small matters, is paramount for the well-being of the collective body, whether it be a family, a church, or a nation, reminding us that our pursuit of personal holiness directly contributes to the spiritual health and flourishing of the entire community.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to "transgress in the thing accursed," prioritizing personal gain over God's clear commands or the well-being of my community?**
* **How does Achar's story challenge my understanding of individual responsibility versus corporate accountability within a faith community?**
* **What "trouble" might my unconfessed or unaddressed sins be causing, either in my own life or in the lives of those around me?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of reverence for God's holiness and His commands, learning from the severe consequences of Achar's disobedience?**

### FAQ
**Why is Achar's transgression highlighted so prominently in a genealogy that mostly lists names?**

Answer: The Chronicler's primary purpose in writing was not merely to record history but to teach theological and moral lessons to his post-exilic audience. By deliberately interrupting the genealogical flow to mention Achar's sin, he emphasizes the enduring significance of this event. It serves as a stark reminder that even within the chosen lineage of Judah, disobedience to God carries severe consequences, impacting the entire community. This inclusion underscores the Chronicler's emphasis on righteous living, the gravity of sin, and God's unwavering justice, ensuring that the lessons from [Achan's transgression](/joshua/7 "Joshua 7 - The Account of Achan's Sin") are not forgotten and serve as a perpetual warning against similar failures.

**What exactly was "the thing accursed" that Achar transgressed against?**

Answer: "The thing accursed" refers to the Hebrew term _cherem_ (חֵרֶם), which designated items or people devoted to God, often for complete destruction or exclusive consecration. In the context of the conquest of Jericho, God commanded that all the city's spoils (gold, silver, bronze, iron) were _cherem_ – not to be taken for personal gain but consecrated to God's treasury or utterly destroyed. Achar secretly took some of these forbidden items for himself, violating God's explicit command and treating what was holy as common. This act of sacrilege brought divine judgment upon Israel, leading to their defeat at Ai, as detailed in [Joshua 7](/joshua/7 "Joshua 7 - Achan's Violation of the Cherem").

**How does Achar's story relate to the concept of corporate responsibility in the Bible?**

Answer: Achar's story is a foundational illustration of corporate responsibility in ancient Israel. His individual act of disobedience, though hidden, was viewed by God as a sin of the entire community. Because of one man's transgression, God's wrath fell upon the whole nation, causing Israel to be defeated by the men of Ai. This highlights the profound interconnectedness of the covenant community, where the sin of one member can affect the spiritual and physical well-being of all. It underscores the principle that sin is not merely a private matter but has communal implications, reminding us that we are often bound together in shared blessings and consequences, as seen in the broader narrative of [Joshua 7](/joshua/7 "Joshua 7 - Corporate Consequences of Achan's Sin").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Achar's sin, "the thing accursed," and the subsequent trouble it brought upon Israel powerfully foreshadow the universal human condition under the curse of sin. Humanity, in Adam, "transgressed in the thing accursed" by disobeying God's command, bringing spiritual death and separation upon all. The Law, with its holy demands and the threat of *cherem* (divine judgment), revealed humanity's utter inability to perfectly obey and escape the curse. Yet, in the fullness of time, God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the Law and became the ultimate "thing accursed" on our behalf. As [Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeemed Us from the Curse") declares, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us." He, who knew no sin, was made sin for us ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")), taking the full weight of divine judgment and the "trouble" of our transgression upon Himself. Through His vicarious sacrifice, the curse of sin is lifted for all who believe, and we are reconciled to God, experiencing true peace and blessing where there was once only condemnation and trouble. His perfect obedience, even unto death ([Romans 5:19](/romans/5-19 "Romans 5:19 - Obedience of Christ")), reverses the disobedience of humanity, providing the path to eternal life and freedom from the ultimate "thing accursed," securing our redemption and restoration.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Joshua 6:18

And ye, in any wise keep [yourselves] from the accursed thing, lest ye make [yourselves] accursed, when ye take of the accursed thing, and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it.

Deuteronomy 7:26

Neither shalt thou bring an abomination into thine house, lest thou be a cursed thing like it: [but] thou shalt utterly detest it, and thou shalt utterly abhor it; for it [is] a cursed thing.

Joshua 7:1

¶ But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel.

Joshua 7:5

And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them [from] before the gate [even] unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water.

Joshua 7:11

Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put [it] even among their own stuff.

Joshua 7:15

And it shall be, [that] he that is taken with the accursed thing shall be burnt with fire, he and all that he hath: because he hath transgressed the covenant of the LORD, and because he hath wrought folly in Israel.

Joshua 7:25

And Joshua said, Why hast thou troubled us? the LORD shall trouble thee this day. And all Israel stoned him with stones, and burned them with fire, after they had stoned them with stones.