Achan
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Achan in the Bible?
Achan, a descendant of Zerah and son of Carmi, violated the divine command to destroy all spoils from Jericho by secretly retaining silver, gold, and a Babylonian garment, an act that led to Israel's defeat at Ai and his execution by stoning along with his family.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Achan's story clarifies the biblical concept of herem (the ban), demonstrating how collective covenant fidelity was viewed as essential for national survival and military success in the conquest narratives.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Achan reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Achan in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Achan clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Achan." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/achan/