### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÂkâr**, represented by `{{H5917}}`, is a name that means **troublesome**. Derived from the primitive root `{{H5916}}` `ʻâkar`, meaning to trouble or stir, this name appears only **1 time** in the Bible. It is used to identify a specific Israelite, Achar, whose actions brought great difficulty upon the nation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H5917}}` is in a genealogical listing in [[1 Chronicles 2:7]], where the text states, "And the sons of Carmi; Achar, the troubler of Israel, who transgressed in the thing accursed." In this context, the name Achar is not merely an identifier but a title that encapsulates his legacy. He is permanently defined by the trouble he brought upon Israel. The verse specifies that this was due to a transgression `{{H4603}}` involving a "thing accursed" `{{H2764}}`, directly linking his name to a specific, grievous sin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning and impact of `{{H5917}}`:
* `{{H5916}}` **ʻâkar** (trouble, stir): This is the root verb from which the name Achar is formed. It means to disturb or afflict, and is used in [[1 Chronicles 2:7]] to describe exactly what Achar did to Israel, making his name a literal description of his deed.
* `{{H4603}}` **mâʻal** (transgress, trespass): This word specifies the nature of Achar's sin. It means to act covertly or treacherously. Achar's act was not a simple mistake but a trespass that broke faith with God and the community [[1 Chronicles 2:7]].
* `{{H2764}}` **chêrem** (accursed thing, devoted thing): This term identifies the subject of the transgression. It refers to a doomed or dedicated object set apart for God, often through utter destruction. By taking from the `chêrem`, Achar violated something considered most holy to the Lord ([[Joshua 6:18]], [[1 Chronicles 2:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5917}}` is centered on the consequences of sin and disobedience.
* **Corporate Accountability:** Achar is explicitly called "the troubler of Israel" [[1 Chronicles 2:7]], demonstrating the biblical principle that an individual's sin can have devastating consequences for the entire community. His trespass brought the anger of the Lord against all of Israel [[Joshua 7:1]].
* **The Sanctity of Devoted Things:** The transgression involved a `chêrem` `{{H2764}}`, something devoted to God. Meddling with a `chêrem` was a direct affront to God's holiness and authority, which in turn made the camp of Israel itself a curse and brought trouble upon it [[Joshua 6:18]].
* **Identity Defined by Sin:** The use of the name Achar, meaning "troubler," serves as a permanent memorial to his transgression. It illustrates how a defining act of disobedience can shape one's identity and legacy in the biblical narrative.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5917}}` `ʻÂkâr` is far more than a simple name. It functions as a powerful, single-verse lesson on the nature of sin. The story of Achar, encapsulated in his name, serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching impact of individual transgression, the severe consequences of violating what is devoted to God, and the way in which a person's actions can define their legacy for all time.
TRV