from an unused root meaning to trouble; troublesome; Akan, an Israelite; Achan. Compare עָכָר.
Transliteration:ʻÂkân
Pronunciation:aw-kawn'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H5912 (עָכָן, ʻÂkân) is a proper noun derived from an unused root meaning "to trouble." As such, the name itself carries the inherent meaning of "troublesome" or "one who causes trouble." This semantic core is crucial for understanding the biblical narrative in which this individual appears. While the root is not directly attested as a verb in the Qal stem, its conceptual force is clearly conveyed through the nominal form and related terms. The base definition explicitly links ʻÂkân to the idea of causing disturbance or distress, setting the stage for the character's role in the biblical account.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name ʻÂkân (H5912) appears exclusively in the book of Joshua, specifically in the narrative concerning the aftermath of the battle of Jericho and the subsequent defeat at Ai. [[Joshua 7:1]] introduces Achan as "Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah." His story unfolds as a pivotal moment in Israel's conquest of Canaan. Following the miraculous victory at Jericho, where all devoted spoils (herem) were to be utterly destroyed or consecrated to the Lord, Achan disobediently took for himself a valuable cloak, silver, and gold, hiding them in his tent ([[Joshua 7:20-21]]).
This act of individual sin had corporate consequences. When Israel subsequently attacked the smaller city of Ai, they suffered a humiliating defeat, losing thirty-six men ([[Joshua 7:4-5]]). God revealed to Joshua that the defeat was due to a breach of the herem covenant, indicating that "Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant" ([[Joshua 7:11]]). Through a process of elimination by tribe, clan, family, and finally individual, Achan's sin was exposed ([[Joshua 7:16-19]]). His confession confirmed his transgression ([[Joshua 7:20-21]]).
The severe judgment meted out to Achan and his household—stoning and burning—underscored the gravity of his sin and its impact on the entire community ([[Joshua 7:24-25]]). The place where this judgment occurred was named the Valley of Achor ([[Joshua 7:26]]), explicitly linking the trouble (ʻAchor, `{{H5911}}`) to Achan (ʻÂkân, `{{H5912}}`) and the distress he caused. This narrative highlights the corporate solidarity of Israel under the covenant and the devastating effects of individual disobedience on the whole.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to H5912 (ʻÂkân) is H5911 (עָכוֹר, ʻÂkôr), which refers to the "Valley of Achor." This geographical location is named precisely because of the "trouble" (ʻAchor) that Achan (ʻÂkân) brought upon Israel. The linguistic connection is explicit and intentional, serving as a perpetual memorial to the events of Joshua 7.
Another significant related term is the verb H5916 (עָכַר, ʻākar), meaning "to trouble, disturb, stir up." This is the verbal root from which the name Achan and the place name Achor are derived. For instance, in [[Joshua 7:25]], Joshua declares to Achan, "Why have you troubled us? The Lord will trouble you this day." Here, the verb ʻākar (H5916) is used directly, forming a powerful wordplay that emphasizes the consequences of Achan's actions.
The concept of herem (devoted things or ban) is central to Achan's story. This refers to things utterly set apart for God, often for destruction, and forbidden for human appropriation. Achan's violation of the herem demonstrated a profound disregard for God's holiness and authority. Other related concepts include corporate responsibility, divine judgment, sin (especially covetousness and disobedience), and the purity of the covenant community.
### Theological Significance
The narrative of Achan carries profound theological significance. Firstly, it underscores the absolute holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. God's command regarding the herem at Jericho was a test of Israel's obedience and trust. Achan's transgression was not merely a private act of theft but a direct affront to God's command and a defilement of what was consecrated to Him. This highlights that sin, particularly disobedience to a clear divine injunction, is a grave matter with far-reaching consequences.
Secondly, the story powerfully illustrates the principle of corporate solidarity and responsibility within the covenant community. Achan's individual sin brought "trouble" upon the entire nation, leading to defeat and divine displeasure. This demonstrates that the actions of one member can affect the well-being and standing of the whole group before God. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of God's people and the necessity of communal purity and obedience for divine favor.
Thirdly, the naming of the Valley of Achor serves as a perpetual reminder of the consequences of sin. Yet, prophetically, this "valley of trouble" is transformed into a "door of hope" in [[Hosea 2:15]]. This later prophetic reinterpretation suggests that even places of judgment and sorrow can become sites of divine restoration and new beginnings, pointing to God's redemptive power over the very places marked by human failure and divine wrath.
Finally, the story of Achan provides a stark lesson on the danger of covetousness and the temptation to prioritize personal gain over divine command. It serves as a warning against undermining God's covenant and highlights the need for vigilance and integrity within the community of faith.
### Summary
H5912 (ʻÂkân) refers to the Israelite Achan, whose name inherently means "troublesome" or "one who causes trouble." His story in Joshua 7 is a pivotal account demonstrating the severe consequences of disobedience to God's commands. By taking devoted spoils from Jericho, Achan's individual sin brought "trouble" upon the entire nation of Israel, leading to their defeat at Ai and necessitating a corporate cleansing through his judgment. The Valley of Achor (H5911), where he was punished, was named to commemorate this "trouble," reinforcing the linguistic connection to the verb "to trouble" (H5916). Theologically, Achan's narrative powerfully illustrates God's holiness, the gravity of sin, the principle of corporate responsibility within the covenant, and the ultimate necessity of purity and obedience for the well-being of God's people. It also offers a profound prophetic hope, where even a valley of trouble can become a door to future restoration.
TRV