Lexical Summary Achira: Ahira Original Word: אֲחִירַע Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Ahira From 'ach and ra'; brother of wrong; Achira, an Israelite -- Ahira. see HEBREW 'ach see HEBREW ra' NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom ach and ra Definition "my brother is evil," a leader of Naphtali NASB Translation Ahira (5). Brown-Driver-Briggs אֲחִירַע proper name, masculine (my brother is evil) a chief of Naphtali Numbers 1:15; Numbers 2:29; Numbers 7:78,83; Numbers 10:27. Topical Lexicon Identity and Lineage Ahira son of Enan emerges in the wilderness narratives as the divinely appointed chief of the tribe of Naphtali (Numbers 1:15). His position is not hereditary royalty but a leadership commission given during Israel’s formative journey from Sinai to the Promised Land. Being named in the same breath with other tribal leaders places him among the recognized heads of Israel, functioning as both civil overseer and spiritual representative for his tribe. Role in the Census and Tribal Muster When Moses and Aaron conducted the first national census, Ahira stood as spokesman for Naphtali. “From Naphtali, Ahira son of Enan” (Numbers 1:15). His inclusion ensured the voice of Naphtali counted in the tally of able-bodied men. This census was more than administrative: it affirmed covenant identity and military preparedness. Ahira’s compliance underscores Naphtali’s willingness to align with the divine strategy for conquest. Place in the Camp Arrangement The Lord ordered each tribe to camp under its standard. For those on the north side, Naphtali, led by Ahira, completed the triad with Dan and Asher. “The tribe of Naphtali shall be next. The leader of the Naphtalites is Ahira son of Enan” (Numbers 2:29). The arrangement guarded the sanctuary’s perimeter, symbolizing both protection and worship. Ahira’s location in the camp highlighted his tribe’s role as a strategic shield and participant in collective devotion. Participation in the Dedication Offerings During the twelve-day dedication of the altar, Ahira offered on the twelfth day. “On the twelfth day, Ahira son of Enan, the leader of Naphtali, approached with his offering” (Numbers 7:78). His presentation mirrored the precise items given by the other leaders, demonstrating unity in worship and equality among tribes. The record (Numbers 7:83) emphasizes the identical nature of each leader’s gift, illustrating covenant solidarity. Ahira’s offerings—silver, gold, grain, and livestock—model cheerful, standardized giving as ordained by God. Leadership on the March When the cloud lifted and the camp set out, Naphtali broke camp last among the northern tribes. “Then the division of the camp of Naphtali, under their host, set out, with Ahira son of Enan in command” (Numbers 10:27). Moving in ordered sequence, Ahira’s leadership ensured Naphtali maintained formation, safeguarding both rear and flank. His obedience to marching instructions reflects disciplined faith and corporate responsibility. Theological and Ministry Reflections 1. Servant Leadership: Ahira’s authority is framed by obedience to divine command rather than personal ambition. Modern ministry finds a pattern in leaders who listen first to God’s Word before directing people. Legacy Though Ahira’s account is brief, Scripture secures his name among the faithful leaders who stewarded Israel’s formative journey. His steadfast execution of assigned duties contributed to Israel’s orderly progress toward Canaan, offering subsequent generations a quiet yet powerful template for covenant fidelity and humble governance. Forms and Transliterations אֲחִירַ֖ע אחירע ’ă·ḥî·ra‘ ’ăḥîra‘ achiRaLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Numbers 1:15 HEB: לְנַ֨פְתָּלִ֔י אֲחִירַ֖ע בֶּן־ עֵינָֽן׃ NAS: of Naphtali, Ahira the son of Enan. KJV: Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan. INT: of Naphtali Ahira the son of Enan Numbers 2:29 Numbers 7:78 Numbers 7:83 Numbers 10:27 5 Occurrences |
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