Introduction:
Achsa, also spelled "Achsah," is a notable female figure in the Old Testament, recognized for her role in the narratives of the Israelite conquest and settlement of Canaan. She is the daughter of Caleb, a prominent leader from the tribe of Judah, and is mentioned in the books of Joshua and Judges. Her account highlights themes of inheritance, marriage, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Biblical References:
Achsa is primarily mentioned in two passages: Joshua 15:16-19 and Judges 1:12-15. These accounts are nearly identical and provide insight into her character and the customs of her time.

Joshua 15:16-19 :
"And Caleb said, 'I will give my daughter Achsah in marriage to the one who strikes down and captures Kiriath-sepher.' So Othniel son of Caleb’s brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Achsah to him in marriage. One day Achsah came to Othniel and urged him to ask her father for a field. When she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, 'What do you desire?' 'Give me a blessing,' she replied. 'Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me also springs of water.' So Caleb gave her both the upper and lower springs."

Judges 1:12-15 :
"And Caleb said, 'I will give my daughter Achsah in marriage to the one who strikes down and captures Kiriath-sepher.' So Othniel son of Caleb’s younger brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Achsah to him in marriage. One day Achsah came to Othniel and urged him to ask her father for a field. When she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, 'What do you desire?' 'Give me a blessing,' she replied. 'Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me also springs of water.' So Caleb gave her both the upper and lower springs."

Historical and Cultural Context:
Achsa lived during the period of the Israelite conquest of Canaan, a time marked by warfare and the establishment of tribal territories. Her father, Caleb, was one of the two faithful spies who, along with Joshua, encouraged the Israelites to trust in God's promise to give them the land (Numbers 13-14). As a leader of the tribe of Judah, Caleb played a significant role in the allocation of land among the tribes.

The practice of offering a daughter in marriage as a reward for military success was not uncommon in ancient times. It reflects the patriarchal structure of society and the importance placed on alliances and the continuation of family lineage.

Character and Actions:
Achsa is portrayed as a woman of initiative and wisdom. Her request for additional resources—specifically, springs of water—demonstrates her foresight and understanding of the land's needs. The Negev, where her land was located, is a dry region, and access to water would have been crucial for sustaining life and agriculture.

Her interaction with her father, Caleb, also highlights the respect and influence she held within her family. Caleb's willingness to grant her request indicates a relationship of mutual respect and the value placed on her well-being.

Theological Significance:
Achsa's account underscores the importance of faithfulness and the fulfillment of God's promises. Her marriage to Othniel, who later becomes the first judge of Israel (Judges 3:9-11), signifies the continuation of God's plan for His people through faithful individuals. The narrative also reflects the biblical theme of blessing, as Achsa's request and Caleb's generous response illustrate the abundance of God's provision.

Legacy:
Achsa's legacy is preserved in the biblical record as a testament to her character and the role of women in the unfolding account of Israel. Her account serves as an example of how individuals, regardless of gender, can act with wisdom and faith to secure their future and contribute to the broader community of God's people.Achsa

(1 Chronicles 2:49) [ACHSAH]

ACHSA

ak'-sa: Used in the King James Version in 1 Chronicles 2:49 for ACHSAH, which see.

Achsa (1 Occurrence)
...ACHSA. ak'-sa: Used in the King James Version in 1 Chronicles 2:49 for ACHSAH,
which see. Multi-Version Concordance Achsa (1 Occurrence). ...
/a/achsa.htm - 6k

Zered (3 Occurrences)
... desert wanderings. It has often been identified with Wady el-`Achsa, which
runs up from the southeastern corner of the Dead Sea. A ...
/z/zered.htm - 8k

Achsah (5 Occurrences)

/a/achsah.htm - 9k

Achor (5 Occurrences)

/a/achor.htm - 11k

Machbenah (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Chronicles 2:49 She bare also Shaaph the father of Madmannah, Sheva the father
of Machbenah, and the father of Gibea: and the daughter of Caleb was Achsa. ...
/m/machbenah.htm - 6k

Beareth (108 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:49 and she beareth Shaaph father of Madmannah, Sheva father of Machbenah,
and father of Gibea; and a daughter of Caleb 'is' Achsa. (YLT). ...
/b/beareth.htm - 34k

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