### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼÂshêrîy**, represented by `{{H843}}`, is a patronymic term for an **Asherite** or descendant of Asher. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This singular usage captures a specific, pivotal moment in the history of the tribe of Asher, defining their relationship with the inhabitants of their allotted territory.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H843}}` is in [[Judges 1:32]], which states that the **Asherites** did not fully conquer their portion of the promised land. Instead of driving out the existing population as commanded, the verse notes that "the **Asherites** dwelt among the Canaanites, the inhabitants of the land: for they did not drive them out." This act of dwelling among the Canaanites, rather than dispossessing them, signifies a failure to complete the conquest and take full inheritance of the land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the significance of the Asherites' actions:
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab**: This root means **to dwell, to remain, or to sit down**. While the Asherites were meant to possess the land, they instead chose to **dwell** alongside the native inhabitants, a theme seen in [[Joshua 24:15]] where Israel is reminded they **dwell** in the land of the Amorites.
* `{{H3423}}` **yârash**: This word means **to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place)** or to inherit. The Asherites failed in this, as they "did not **drive them out**" [[Judges 1:32]]. This stands in contrast to God's promise that Israel would **drive them out** [[Deuteronomy 9:3]].
* `{{H3669}}` **Kᵉnaʻanîy**: This identifies a **Kenaanite or inhabitant of Kenaan**. The Asherites' choice to dwell among the **Canaanites** was a direct compromise of the command to remain separate from them and their practices [[Genesis 24:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H843}}` is tied entirely to its narrative context, highlighting the theme of incomplete obedience.
* **Failure of Inheritance:** The core issue is the failure to **inherit** `{{H3423}}` the land `{{H776}}` fully. The command to possess the land was a test of faith and obedience, and the Asherites' actions represent a compromise where they settled for coexistence instead of conquest.
* **Compromise and Cohabitation:** By choosing to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` among the Canaanites, the Asherites entered into a state of spiritual and cultural compromise. This stands as a historical example of the dangers of failing to separate from influences contrary to God's law.
* **Divine Mandate Unfulfilled:** The narrative underscores the gap between God's clear command to drive out `{{H3423}}` the nations [[Joshua 3:10]] and the people's partial obedience. The Asherites' story serves as a specific instance of a broader theme in the book of Judges.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H843}}` appears just once, its significance is profound. It pinpoints the **Asherites** as a case study in failed conquest and compromised inheritance. The verse illustrates a crucial turning point, where settling to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` among the **Canaanites** `{{H3669}}` replaced the divine mandate to **possess** `{{H3423}}` the land, setting a precedent for the cycle of disobedience and conflict that characterizes the era of the Judges.
TRV