feminine of עֶכֶס; anklet; Aksah, an Israelitess; Achsah.
Transliteration:ʻAkçâh
Pronunciation:ak-saw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H5915 (עַכְסָה, ʻAkçâh) is primarily a proper noun, designating a specific individual in the Old Testament. Its base definition indicates it is the feminine form of `{{H6064}}` (עֶכֶס, ʻekes), which means "anklet" or "fetter." Thus, the etymological root of ʻAkçâh suggests a connection to adornment or perhaps even a binding element. However, in its biblical usage, H5915 functions exclusively as the name of Caleb's daughter, and its semantic range is therefore confined to this proper identification. While the root meaning offers an interesting linguistic insight, it does not directly inform the narrative significance of the character beyond the name itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
H5915 (ʻAkçâh) appears in three primary passages, consistently referring to the daughter of Caleb ben Jephunneh:
* **[[Joshua 15:16-19]]**: This passage introduces Achsah as the prize offered by Caleb to whoever conquers Kiriath-sepher (later Debir). Othniel, Caleb's nephew, successfully captures the city and is given Achsah as his wife. Significantly, upon her marriage, Achsah requests and receives from her father not only dry land but also the "upper springs and the lower springs," demonstrating a remarkable assertiveness and foresight regarding essential resources.
* **[[Judges 1:12-15]]**: This account largely mirrors the one in Joshua, reiterating the narrative of Caleb's vow, Othniel's conquest, and Achsah's subsequent request for the springs. The repetition underscores the importance of this event in the early settlement period of Israel, highlighting the strategic value of water sources.
* **[[1 Chronicles 2:49]]**: This genealogical reference lists Achsah as one of Caleb's children, confirming her lineage within the tribe of Judah. This mention serves to solidify her place within the broader history of Israel, particularly concerning the prominent family of Caleb.
Across these occurrences, Achsah is portrayed not merely as a passive object of exchange but as an active participant in securing her inheritance, particularly her shrewd request for the life-sustaining springs. Her actions are pivotal for the well-being of her new household.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H6064}}` (ʻekes)**: The masculine noun from which Achsah's name is derived, meaning "anklet" or "fetter." This etymological link provides the literal meaning behind her name but does not overtly influence her narrative.
* **Caleb (`{{H3612}}`)**: Achsah's father, a pivotal figure in Israel's conquest and settlement, known for his unwavering faith and inheritance of Hebron. Achsah's story is deeply intertwined with Caleb's legacy and the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land.
* **Othniel (`{{H2080}}`)**: Achsah's husband, who becomes the first judge of Israel. His valor in conquering Kiriath-sepher is directly linked to his marriage to Achsah.
* **Inheritance (נַחֲלָה, nachalah, `{{H5159}}`)**: A central theme in Achsah's narrative. Her request for the springs highlights the importance of a complete and functional inheritance within the Promised Land, essential for sustenance and prosperity. This concept is foundational to Israel's covenant relationship with God.
* **Land (אֶרֶץ, eretz, `{{H776}}`)**: The physical territory granted by God to Israel, which forms the backdrop for Achsah's story. Her acquisition of the springs underscores the practical realities of settling and thriving in the land.
### Theological Significance
Achsah's brief but impactful narrative carries several theological implications:
* **Divine Provision and Wisdom**: Her request for the springs demonstrates a practical wisdom that recognizes the necessity of water for the productivity of the land. This can be seen as a reflection of God's comprehensive provision for His people, not just in granting land but also in providing the means to make it fruitful. Achsah's proactive role in securing these resources highlights the human responsibility to steward divine gifts wisely.
* **Feminine Agency and Value**: In a patriarchal society, Achsah's assertiveness in approaching her father and successfully requesting additional, vital land challenges simplistic views of women's roles. She is portrayed as a woman of discernment and initiative, whose actions directly contribute to the well-being and prosperity of her family. Her story affirms the value and agency of women within God's redemptive plan and the covenant community.
* **Fulfillment of Promise**: Achsah's inheritance of the springs, facilitated by her father Caleb, is part of the larger fulfillment of God's promise to give Israel the land. Her story, though personal, contributes to the grand narrative of God's faithfulness in establishing His people in the Promised Land.
* **The Blessings of Obedience**: While not directly about her obedience, Achsah's inheritance is a direct result of Othniel's obedience to Caleb's challenge and Caleb's own faithfulness to God. The blessings extend to the family, illustrating how faithfulness can lead to tangible benefits for future generations.
### Summary
H5915 (ʻAkçâh) designates a significant female figure in early Israelite history, the daughter of Caleb and wife of Othniel. Though her name etymologically links to "anklet," her biblical significance lies in her assertive actions rather than this linguistic root. Featured prominently in [[Joshua 15]] and [[Judges 1]], Achsah is portrayed as a woman of remarkable foresight and initiative, who successfully requests and receives essential water sources (upper and lower springs) from her father. Her narrative contributes to several theological themes: the comprehensive nature of divine provision for Israel's inheritance, the demonstration of feminine agency and wisdom within the covenant community, and the practical outworking of God's promises concerning the land. Achsah's story underscores the importance of securing vital resources for flourishing within the Promised Land, reflecting a deep understanding of the necessities for life and prosperity.
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