Ahishahur
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Ahishahur is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His name appears in the context of the descendants of Asher, who was one of the sons of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The name "Ahishahur" is found in 1 Chronicles 7:34, which provides a list of the sons of Japhlet, a descendant of Asher.

Biblical Reference:

1 Chronicles 7:34 : "The sons of Shomer: Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah, and Aram."

In this passage, Ahishahur is listed as one of the sons of Shomer, who is also referred to as Shomer in some translations. The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles 7 provide insight into the lineage and family structure of the tribe of Asher, highlighting the importance of family heritage and tribal identity in ancient Israel.

Tribal Context:

The tribe of Asher was one of the northern tribes of Israel, known for its rich agricultural land and prosperity. Asher's territory was located along the Mediterranean coast, extending from Carmel to Sidon. The tribe was blessed by Jacob in Genesis 49:20, where it is said, "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide royal delicacies." This blessing underscores the abundance and fertility associated with the tribe.

Name Meaning and Significance:

The name "Ahishahur" is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often interpreted as "brother of dawn" or "brother of blackness," depending on the root words considered. Names in the biblical context often carry significant meanings or reflect certain attributes or hopes of the family.

Genealogical Importance:

Genealogies in the Bible serve multiple purposes, including establishing legal rights, tribal affiliations, and fulfilling covenant promises. The inclusion of Ahishahur in the genealogical record of Asher emphasizes the continuity of the tribe and its members' roles in the broader narrative of Israel's history. These records also highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the multiplication and establishment of their descendants.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were crucial for maintaining tribal identity and inheritance rights. They provided a sense of belonging and continuity, linking individuals to the larger account of God's chosen people. The tribe of Asher, like other tribes, played a role in the collective identity of Israel, contributing to its military, economic, and spiritual life.

Ahishahur, though a minor figure in the biblical narrative, represents the broader tapestry of Israel's history and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. His mention in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel and their place in the divine plan.
Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary
Ahishahur

brother of the morning or dew; brother of blackness

Resources
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Ahishahar: Son of Bilhan
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