אֲחִיסָמָךְ

אֲחִיסָמָךְ

Achisamak, an Israelite

Definition

Achisamak is a proper name meaning 'my brother has supported' or 'brother of support.' He was an Israelite from the tribe of Dan, specifically identified as the father of Oholiab (Exodus 31:6, 35:34, 38:23). In the biblical narrative, his significance is entirely derived from his son's role. Achisamak himself is not an active character, but his name and lineage establish Oholiab's tribal heritage and legitimacy as a divinely appointed craftsman for the Tabernacle.

Biblical Usage

The name Achisamak appears exclusively in the book of Exodus, in three nearly identical contexts detailing the construction of the Tabernacle. Each occurrence serves to identify Oholiab, son of Achisamak, as the skilled artisan appointed by God to work alongside Bezalel (Exodus 31:6, 35:34, 38:23). The usage is purely genealogical and administrative, listing the craftsmen and their tribal affiliations for this sacred project.

Etymology

The name Achisamak (אֲחִיסָמָךְ) is a compound of two Hebrew elements: 'achi' (אָח, H251), meaning 'brother of' or 'my brother,' and the verb 'samak' (סָמַךְ, H5564), meaning 'to support,' 'lean upon,' or 'uphold.' Thus, the name literally translates to 'my brother has supported' or 'brother of support.' It is a theophoric name, expressing a relationship of support that may be understood in a human familial sense or, implicitly, as support provided by God.

Semantic Range

While Achisamak is a minor figure, his name and context contribute to the theology of divine calling and gifting. His son Oholiab was filled with the Spirit of God with skill and intelligence for craftsmanship (Exodus 35:34). This shows that God's gifting for sacred work extends beyond the tribe of Levi and specific leadership roles. The name 'brother of support' may subtly reflect the communal and supportive nature of the work, where different tribes and families contributed to building God's dwelling place. In ancient Israelite culture, names often carried significant meaning, reflecting circumstances of birth, parental hopes, or acknowledgment of God's action. A name like 'Brother of Support' suggests a value placed on familial loyalty and mutual aid within the clan structure. His identification as a Danite is also culturally significant, as it highlights that the tribe of Dan, later known for idolatry (Judges 18), was originally represented in the holy work of the Tabernacle. Oholiab (אָהֳלִיאָב, H171) — Achisamak's son and co-craftsman; the name means 'tent of the father.' Bezalel (בְּצַלְאֵל, H1212) — The primary craftsman appointed alongside Oholiab; the name means 'in the shadow/protection of God.'

Word Details