Who was Achan?

Covetous soldier led to defeat.

The story of Achan

Achan - Treasurer
Achan - Treasurer
Treasurer

Achan was a biblical figure from the book of Joshua in the Old Testament. He was the son of Carmi, a descendant of Judah, and the grandson of Zabdi. He had two brothers, Zimri and Zerah. Achan is best known for his role in the Israelites' defeat at the Battle of Ai. After the Israelites had been commanded by God to take the city of Jericho, Achan disobeyed God's command and kept some of the spoils of the city for himself. This act of disobedience caused the Israelites to be defeated at the Battle of Ai. When Achan's disobedience was discovered, he was stoned to death by the Israelites. His family was also punished for his actions, and his possessions were burned. Achan's story serves as a warning to all who would disobey God's commands. His story is a reminder that God's commands must be followed, and that disobedience will be punished.

Name meaning

The name "Achan" is of Hebrew origin, and it is most commonly associated with a character from the Bible, specifically in the Old Testament. In the Book of Joshua, Achan is a member of the tribe of Judah who disobeyed God's command by stealing spoils during the conquest of Jericho, leading to Israel's temporary defeat at the city of Ai. His actions brought trouble upon Israel, and subsequently, he and his family faced severe consequences. The name "Achan" is often interpreted to mean "troubler" or "one who brings trouble" in this biblical context.

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

Treasurer

First mention

Joshua 7:1

Appearances in the Bible

7 mentions

Family

Relatives of Achan

Achan in the Bible

Explore all 2 chapters where Achan appears

Joshua

Chapter 7

Achan's Sin

Joshua's army is defeated at Ai because of Achan's disobedience.

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Joshua

Chapter 22

The Altar on the Jordan

Joshua reminds the Israelites to obey God's commandments and reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and East Manasseh of the...

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