### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĂchîychud**, represented by `{{H284}}`, is defined as **"brother of a riddle (i.e. mysterious)"**. This name is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entirety of the Bible, marking a specific Israelite in a genealogical record.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **ʼĂchîychud** is within a genealogical listing in the book of 1 Chronicles. The verse serves to establish a specific family line, stating, "And Naaman, and Ahiah, and Gera, he removed them, and begat Uzza, and **Ahihud**" [[1 Chronicles 8:7]]. In this context, Ahihud is identified as one of two sons begotten by an individual named Gera.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse in which `{{H284}}` appears contains several other significant names and actions that provide a fuller picture of the context:
* `{{H5283}}` **Naʻămân**: This name identifies an Israelite listed alongside Ahihud's relatives [[1 Chronicles 8:7]].
* `{{H281}}` **ʼĂchîyâh**: Meaning "brother (i.e. worshipper) of Jah," this name designates another individual, Ahiah, mentioned in the same list [[1 Chronicles 8:7]].
* `{{H1617}}` **Gêrâʼ**: The name of the Israelite who is recorded as the father of Ahihud [[1 Chronicles 8:7]].
* `{{H1540}}` **gâlâh**: This root word, meaning to "exile" or "reveal," describes the action taken toward Gera before he fathered his sons.
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad**: A primitive root meaning "to beget," this verb describes the action of Gera fathering Ahihud and Uzza [[1 Chronicles 8:7]].
* `{{H5798}}` **ʻUzzâʼ**: Meaning "strength," this is the name of Ahihud's brother, begotten by Gera in the same verse [[1 Chronicles 8:7]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the name `{{H284}}` carries contextual weight through its definition and placement.
* **A Mysterious Identity:** The name itself, **"brother of a riddle,"** suggests something mysterious or hidden. Ahihud's singular mention in a complex family line underscores this enigmatic quality.
* **Revelation and Lineage:** Ahihud is born after his father Gera is "removed" `{{H1540}}`. The same Hebrew verb, **gâlâh**, is used elsewhere to describe God's action of revealing His secrets [[Amos 3:7]] or opening one's eyes to His law [[Psalms 119:18]]. This places the "mysterious" son within a context of divine action and revelation.
* **Brotherhood and Identity:** The name is constructed from components meaning "brother" and "riddle." He is listed with a brother named **ʻUzzâʼ** `{{H5798}}`, meaning "strength," and near a relative named **ʼĂchîyâh** `{{H281}}`, "brother of Jah." This frames his identity in relationship to mystery, strength, and God.
### Summary
In summary, **ʼĂchîychud** `{{H284}}` is more than just a name in a list. Although it appears only in [[1 Chronicles 8:7]], its meaning of **"brother of a riddle"** invites deeper consideration. Set within a genealogy that uses the significant verb **gâlâh** (to remove/reveal), the name hints at the mysterious ways in which God's plan unfolds through the generations of Israel.
TRV