Achan
The Troubler of Israel
Name Information
- Meaning: "Troubler" or "one who brings disaster"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Achan was an Israelite who disobeyed God’s command by taking forbidden items from Jericho. His secret sin led to Israel’s defeat at Ai and brought judgment on himself and his family. His story is a sobering reminder of how hidden sin can impact an entire community and how seriously God views covenant faithfulness.
⏰ Conquest of Canaan
Roles
- Transgressor
- Warning Example
Relationships
- Spouse: Unnamed
- Children: Sons and daughters (unnamed)
Story
After the miraculous victory at Jericho, God commanded that all valuables from the city be devoted to Him. But Achan secretly took a beautiful robe, silver, and gold, hiding them in his tent.
Unaware of the transgression, Joshua led Israel to attack the small city of Ai — only to suffer a shocking defeat. God revealed that someone in the camp had broken faith with Him.
Through a process of divine selection, Achan was identified. He confessed his sin, and the stolen items were recovered.
As a result, Achan, along with his family and possessions, was stoned and burned in the Valley of Achor — meaning 'trouble' — leaving a lasting symbol of the cost of disobedience.
His story underscores that no sin is truly hidden from God and that covenant disloyalty brings real consequences.
Spiritual Significance
- Achan disobeyed God's command by taking devoted items from Jericho — items meant to be destroyed or consecrated to the Lord.
- His secret sin caused the entire nation of Israel to suffer a humiliating defeat at Ai.
- When confronted, Achan confessed, but his actions brought judgment not only upon himself but also upon his household.
- He is remembered as a stark warning about the consequences of hidden sin, disobedience, and breaking covenant with God.
What We Can Learn
- Hidden sin affects more than just the individual — it can bring harm to families, communities, and ministries.
- God takes obedience seriously, especially when it comes to His covenant instructions.
- Confession is necessary, but delayed obedience often has irreversible consequences.
- We are called to live with integrity before God and others, knowing nothing is truly hidden from His sight.
- Achan’s story is a warning — but also an invitation to walk in the light, deal with sin early, and uphold the holiness God desires for His people.
Memory Verses
Did not Achan son of Zerah act unfaithfully in regard to the devoted things? Wrath came upon the whole community of Israel. He was not the only one who died for his sin.
— Joshua 22:20
Key Passages
- Joshua 7
- Joshua 22:20
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