אַחֵר

Acher, an Israelite

Definition

Acher is a proper name of an Israelite mentioned only once in the Bible. The name appears in 1 Chronicles 7:12 as part of a genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin. The name itself means 'another' or 'other,' derived from the common Hebrew adjective. In this context, it functions solely as a personal identifier for an individual within a list of descendants, with no further narrative or action attached to the person.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively as a proper name in the Old Testament. Its single occurrence is in 1 Chronicles 7:12, within a genealogical record: 'Shuppim also, and Huppim, the children of Ir, and Hushim, the sons of Aher.' It appears in a list detailing the descendants of Benjamin, serving only to name an ancestor. There are no other usages or contextual patterns.

Etymology

The name Acher (אַחֵר) is identical to the common Hebrew adjective 'acher' (H312), which means 'another,' 'other,' 'different,' or 'following.' It is derived from a root suggesting succession or coming after. As a proper name, it directly borrows this adjectival meaning, likely signifying 'Another One' or 'The Other,' a practice common in Hebrew onomastics where descriptive words become personal names.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names often carried descriptive or hopeful meanings. Naming a child 'Acher' ('Another') could reflect circumstances of birth (e.g., another son), a sense of distinction, or a hope for a different future. Its use in a genealogy highlights the importance of recording family lineage for tribal identity and inheritance rights, a central concern in Israel's cultural and religious life.

acher (H312) — This is the common adjective meaning 'other' or 'another,' from which the proper name Acher is directly taken.

Word Details

Scripture References