### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Ἀσήρ (Asḗr), transliterated as Asḗr and assigned Strong's number `{{G768}}`, is a proper noun of Hebrew origin. It directly derives from the Hebrew אָשֵׁר (Asher), `{{H836}}`, which designates the Israelite tribe and its progenitor. The underlying Hebrew root, אָשַׁר (H833), carries the primary meaning "to be happy," "to be blessed," or "to be prosperous." Thus, the name Asher itself signifies "happy" or "blessed." In its New Testament usage, Ἀσήρ refers exclusively to the tribe of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, or to an individual belonging to that tribe. Its semantic range is therefore quite narrow, referring specifically to this particular tribal entity within the broader Israelite context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, Ἀσήρ (Asḗr) appears in two distinct contexts, both crucial for understanding the continuity of God's covenant with Israel.
1. **Luke 2:36**: "And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser (Ἀσήρ)." This occurrence is significant as it identifies Anna, a devout woman who recognized the infant Jesus as the Messiah, as belonging to the tribe of Asher. Her tribal affiliation is not incidental but underscores her connection to the ancient covenant people and highlights the presence of faithful Israelites awaiting the consolation of Israel. It demonstrates that even during a period of spiritual decline, God preserved a remnant from all tribes, including those from the northern kingdom, like Asher, which had long been dispersed. Anna's lineage emphasizes the deep roots of her piety within the heritage of Israel.
2. **Revelation 7:6**: "Of the tribe of Aser (Ἀσήρ) were sealed twelve thousand." Here, Asher is listed among the twelve tribes from which 12,000 are sealed, signifying God's preservation of a complete and holy remnant. In this apocalyptic vision, the inclusion of Asher, alongside the other tribes, symbolizes the full number of God's elect, drawn from all of Israel, who are marked for divine protection during the tribulation. The listing of the tribes in Revelation 7, though not in the traditional order, underscores the comprehensive nature of God's redemptive plan, ensuring that no part of His covenant people is forgotten.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the Hebrew original אָשֵׁר (Asher), `{{H836}}`, from which the Greek G768 is transliterated. This Hebrew word refers to both the patriarch Asher, the eighth son of Jacob, and the tribe descended from him.
Conceptually, Ἀσήρ is intrinsically linked to:
* **The Twelve Tribes of Israel**: Asher is one of the foundational tribal units that constitute the nation of Israel, representing a distinct lineage and inheritance within God's covenant people.
* **Tribal Identity and Inheritance**: The mention of tribal affiliation, as seen with Anna in Luke, speaks to the significance of lineage and the enduring identity of God's people through generations.
* **Blessing and Divine Favor**: The inherent meaning of the name "Asher" (happy, blessed) points to the theme of divine favor and prosperity, echoing the blessing pronounced upon Asher by Jacob in [[Genesis 49:20]].
* **The Remnant of Israel**: The appearance of Asher in Luke and Revelation highlights the concept of a faithful remnant preserved by God, demonstrating His continuous work among His chosen people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Ἀσήρ (Asḗr) in the New Testament is profound, primarily revolving around the themes of divine faithfulness, the continuity of God's covenant with Israel, and the comprehensive scope of His redemptive plan.
The identification of Anna as "of the tribe of Aser" in [[Luke 2:36]] is not a mere genealogical detail but a powerful affirmation of God's enduring commitment to all the tribes of Israel, even those historically associated with the northern kingdom and its subsequent dispersion. It signifies that the Messiah's arrival was anticipated and recognized by a faithful remnant drawn from the breadth of Israelite heritage, bridging the Old and New Covenants. Anna's tribal identity underscores that salvation is "from the Jews" ([[John 4:22]]) and that God's promises to Abraham's descendants remain active.
In [[Revelation 7:6]], the inclusion of Asher among the sealed tribes reinforces the completeness and security of God's chosen people in the eschatological drama. It symbolizes that God's plan of salvation encompasses the whole of Israel, ensuring their preservation and ultimate redemption. The name "Asher," meaning "blessed," subtly resonates with the blessed state of those sealed by God for salvation, emphasizing divine favor and protection in the face of tribulation. Thus, Ἀσήρ serves as a testament to God's unwavering covenant loyalty and His meticulous care for His people, from the patriarchs to the consummation of all things.
### Summary
Ἀσήρ (Asḗr), `{{G768}}`, is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Asher, meaning "happy" or "blessed." It refers to one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's son Asher. In the New Testament, its rare but significant occurrences in [[Luke 2:36]] and [[Revelation 7:6]] serve to underscore the continuity of God's covenant with the physical nation of Israel. Anna, the prophetess, being "of the tribe of Aser," demonstrates the faithful remnant's anticipation of the Messiah, while the sealing of 12,000 from the tribe of Asher in Revelation symbolizes God's comprehensive preservation and ultimate redemption of His chosen people. The name itself, "blessed," subtly reinforces the divine favor and enduring promises bestowed upon those whom God calls His own.
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