### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun עׇכְרָן (ʻOkrân, `{{H5918}}`) is derived from the root עָכַר (ʻākar, `{{H5916}}`), which carries the primary meaning of "to trouble, disturb, stir up, make turbid, or afflict." Consequently, the name ʻOkrân is understood to mean "muddler," "troubler," or "one who troubles/disturbs." As a personal name, this etymology likely reflects a descriptive quality or an aspirational hope for the individual, though the precise nuance in ancient naming conventions can be complex. It is a name that inherently carries the semantic weight of its root, pointing towards disturbance or agitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name ʻOkrân (H5918) appears exclusively in the book of Numbers, where it consistently identifies the father of Pagiel, the tribal leader (or "prince") of Asher.
* In [[Numbers 1:13]], ʻOkrân is listed as the father of Pagiel, who is chosen to represent the tribe of Asher in the census taken by Moses and Aaron.
* [[Numbers 2:27]] reiterates Pagiel's identity as "the son of ʻOkrân" in the context of the tribal encampment order.
* [[Numbers 7:72]] and [[Numbers 7:77]] mention ʻOkrân as Pagiel's father when Pagiel brings the offering for the dedication of the tabernacle.
* Finally, [[Numbers 10:26]] identifies ʻOkrân as Pagiel's father as the standard of the camp of the tribe of Asher sets out during the wilderness journey.
In all these occurrences, ʻOkrân is solely identified by his paternity to Pagiel. The biblical text provides no further narrative details about ʻOkrân himself, making his role primarily genealogical, serving to establish Pagiel's lineage and tribal affiliation within the structured community of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the verbal root עָכַר (ʻākar, `{{H5916}}`), from which ʻOkrân is directly derived. This root is used throughout the Old Testament to denote various forms of trouble or disturbance. For instance, Jacob laments to his sons, "You have troubled me" ([[Genesis 34:30]]) after their violent actions. Most notably, the root is famously linked to Achan (עָכָן, `{{H5917}}`), whose name is phonetically and etymologically very close to ʻOkrân. Achan's sin at Ai "troubled" Israel, leading to his punishment and the subsequent naming of the "Valley of Achor" (Valley of Trouble) in [[Joshua 7:25-26]]. This stark contrast between the narrative surrounding Achan and the absence of any negative connotation for ʻOkrân highlights that while names often carry meaning, they do not necessarily predetermine character or destiny. Other related concepts include the broader theme of Israelite tribal organization, leadership, and the meticulous recording of genealogies, which were crucial for identity, inheritance, and the fulfillment of covenant promises.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun with no direct narrative, ʻOkrân does not carry explicit theological doctrine. However, his presence in the biblical record offers subtle theological insights:
1. **Divine Sovereignty in Lineage:** The repeated mention of ʻOkrân as the father of a tribal leader underscores the importance of lineage within God's covenant people. God works through specific families and tribes to accomplish His purposes, demonstrating His meticulous ordering of human society.
2. **Meaning vs. Character:** The name ʻOkrân, meaning "muddler" or "troubler," stands in stark contrast to the lack of any narrative indicating ʻOkrân himself caused trouble. This is particularly poignant when compared to Achan, whose name (`{{H5917}}`) is very similar and whose actions indeed "troubled" Israel. This distinction suggests that the etymological meaning of a name does not necessarily dictate a person's character or actions in God's eyes. God uses individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of potentially challenging name meanings, to fulfill His divine plan.
3. **God's Use of All People:** The inclusion of ʻOkrân in the sacred text, even if only as a genealogical marker, subtly affirms that every individual, no matter how minor their documented role, is part of God's overarching narrative and contributes to the unfolding of His redemptive history.
### Summary
ʻOkrân (H5918) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name derived from the root עָכַר (`{{H5916}}`), meaning "to trouble" or "disturb," thus translating to "muddler" or "troubler." Biblically, ʻOkrân appears exclusively in the book of Numbers, identified consistently as the father of Pagiel, the leader (or prince) of the tribe of Asher. His significance is primarily genealogical, serving to establish Pagiel's tribal identity and lineage during the wilderness period. The theological implication of ʻOkrân lies in the contrast between his name's etymological meaning and the absence of any negative narrative about him, especially when compared to the infamous Achan (`{{H5917}}`). This highlights that while names carry meaning, a person's character and role in God's plan are ultimately determined by divine sovereignty and their own actions, not merely by the literal interpretation of their name. ʻOkrân stands as a quiet testament to the meticulousness of biblical record-keeping and God's use of all individuals within His grand design.
TRV