Lexical Summary
Acher: Aher
Original Word:אַחֵר
Part of Speech:Proper Name Masculine
Transliteration:Acher
Pronunciation:ah-KHAYR
Phonetic Spelling:(akh-air')
KJV: Aher
NASB:Aher
Word Origin:[the same asH312 (אַחֵר - other)]
1. Acher, an Israelite
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
Aher
The same as'acher; Acher, an Israelite -- Aher.
see HEBREW'acher
NAS Exhaustive Concordance
Word Originof uncertain derivation
Definitionan Isr.
NASB TranslationAher (1).
Brown-Driver-Briggs
II.
1 Chronicles 7:12 (identity & meaning quite dubious; Be thinks =
another, to avoid naming Dan (compareGenesis 46:23;Numbers 26:42) on account of the narrativeJudges 17f. Öttli identifies withJudges 17f 8:8>).
Topical Lexicon
Identification in Scripture1 Chronicles 7:12 is the single occurrence of אַחֵר (Strong’s H313) as a proper name: “Shuppim and Huppim were the descendants of Ir, and the Hushites the descendants of Aher.” (Berean Standard Bible).
Genealogical Context
Aher appears in the tribal register of Benjamin. The Chronicler situates him alongside Ir, the father of Shuppim and Huppim. The verse preserves three Benjamite clan clusters:
• Shuppim and Huppim (descendants of Ir)
• Hushim (descendants of Aher)
The placement underscores Benjamin’s growth into multiple sub-families during the period between the patriarchal migration to Egypt (Genesis 46:21) and the monarchy. The Chronicler’s intent is to demonstrate God’s faithfulness in preserving every branch of the covenant people, even the lesser-known lines.
Possible Parallels and Variants
A comparison with other genealogical records suggests that Aher may correspond to:
• Aharah (1 Chronicles 8:1-2)
• Ahiram (Numbers 26:38)
Aher (“another” or “other”) could be a scribal abbreviation or a clan nickname that distinguished his household from closely related lines. Such variations are common when families transcribe oral records across centuries. The harmony of the lists, despite different spelling conventions, affirms the integrity of the inspired text rather than exposing contradiction; the names represent the same historical realities viewed from complementary angles.
Textual Considerations
1 Chronicles compiles genealogies long after the events, probably during or after the exile. The Chronicler frequently updates archaic spellings, explains place names, or employs shorter forms for ease of repetition in public reading. Aher’s solitary mention typifies this editorial practice: a succinct notation sufficient for the returning community to trace its heritage.
Historical Significance
Even a single-verse individual like Aher contributes to the tapestry of Israel’s story:
1. Clan Identity: His household produced the Hushites, a group distinct enough to merit separate recognition, indicating numerical strength and territorial settlement.
2. Military Capability: The surrounding context (1 Chronicles 7:2-11) enumerates counts of “mighty men of valor.” Although no total is given for Aher, the pattern implies that his descendants furnished warriors vital to national defense.
3. Covenant Continuity: By recording every branch, Scripture highlights that God’s promises to the patriarchs embraced all their seed, not merely the prominent lines that produced judges or kings.
Theological Reflections
Aher’s name, derived from the root “other,” reminds readers that the Lord values the “others” who occupy the margins of biblical narrative. The Spirit inspired the Chronicler to preserve such details, teaching that no member of God’s people is forgotten (Romans 12:4-5). The listing also foreshadows the New Testament vision of a body composed of many parts, each essential to the whole (1 Corinthians 12:14-27).
Practical Ministry Applications
1. Shepherding the Overlooked: Pastors and leaders are called to recognize and equip those who may feel like “another” in the congregation, affirming their place in God’s redemptive plan.
2. Genealogical Encouragement: Believers tracing family histories can take comfort that Scripture values ancestry and identity, yet ultimately points to Christ as the unifying Head of every lineage (Ephesians 1:10).
3. Faithful Record-Keeping: Churches benefit from accurate membership rolls and historical archives, mirroring the Chronicler’s diligence in honoring past generations.
Summary
Though mentioned only once, Aher stands as a testament to God’s meticulous care for every clan within His covenant community. His inclusion in the inspired genealogy assures readers that the Lord’s promises extend to all who belong to Him, inviting contemporary believers to honor both the prominent and the “other” among God’s people.
Forms and Transliterations
אַחֵֽר׃ אחר׃ ’a·ḥêr ’aḥêr aCher
Links
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Englishman's Greek Concordance •
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