Topical Encyclopedia Carmi is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. He is most notably recognized as the father of Achan, whose actions brought significant consequences upon the Israelites during their conquest of Canaan.Genealogical Context Carmi is listed in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In 1 Chronicles 2:7, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The son of Carmi: Achar, the troubler of Israel, who violated the ban on devoted things." This passage highlights Carmi's lineage and directly associates him with Achan, also referred to as Achar, emphasizing the familial connection and the subsequent infamy due to Achan's transgression. The Sin of Achan Carmi's son, Achan, is central to a pivotal narrative in the Book of Joshua. After the fall of Jericho, Achan violated God's command by taking some of the devoted items, which were meant to be destroyed or consecrated to the Lord. This act of disobedience led to Israel's defeat at Ai, as recorded in Joshua 7. The Lord revealed to Joshua that Israel had sinned, and through a process of casting lots, Achan, the son of Carmi, was identified as the transgressor. Joshua 7:18 recounts: "He had Zabdi's family come forward man by man, and Achan son of Carmi, son of Zabdi, son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, was selected." This passage underscores the gravity of Achan's sin and its impact on the entire community, as well as the importance of familial and tribal identity in ancient Israel. Consequences and Legacy The sin of Achan, and by extension the household of Carmi, resulted in severe consequences. Achan confessed to taking a beautiful robe, two hundred shekels of silver, and a bar of gold, which he had hidden in his tent. As a result, Achan, along with his family and possessions, was taken to the Valley of Achor and stoned to death, as described in Joshua 7:24-26. This act of judgment was necessary to remove the sin from Israel and restore the nation's standing before God. Carmi's legacy, therefore, is intricately tied to the narrative of Achan. While Carmi himself is not directly implicated in the sin, his mention in the genealogical records serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the far-reaching consequences of sin within the community of Israel. Theological Implications The account of Carmi and Achan highlights several theological themes, including the holiness of God, the seriousness of sin, and the communal nature of Israel's covenant relationship with God. The narrative serves as a sobering reminder of the need for faithfulness and the potential impact of individual actions on the broader community. It also underscores the justice of God, who requires accountability and repentance to maintain the sanctity of His people. In summary, Carmi, though a relatively minor figure in the biblical text, is associated with a significant event in Israel's history through his son Achan. This connection serves as a testament to the enduring importance of obedience and the consequences of transgression in the life of God's covenant people. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 7:1,18But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 2:7 Library Two Coverings and Two Consequences Two Coverings and Two Consequences 1 Thessalonians iv. 15-17 Letter cxxxiii. To Ctesiphon. The Barren Fig-Tree; Resources Who was Reuben in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |