Topical Encyclopedia Acsah is a notable female figure in the Old Testament, recognized as the daughter of Caleb, a prominent leader from the tribe of Judah. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Joshua and the Book of Judges, where she is depicted as a woman of initiative and discernment.Biblical References: 1. Joshua 15:16-19 : "And Caleb said, 'I will give my daughter Acsah in marriage to the one who strikes down and captures Kiriath-sepher.' So Othniel son of Caleb’s brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Acsah to him in marriage. One day Acsah came to Othniel and urged him to ask her father for a field. When she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, 'What do you desire?' 'Give me a blessing,' she replied. 'Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me also springs of water.' So Caleb gave her both the upper and lower springs." 2. Judges 1:12-15 : This passage mirrors the account in Joshua, reiterating Acsah's marriage to Othniel and her request for additional land resources from her father, Caleb. Historical and Cultural Context: Acsah lived during the period of the Israelite conquest and settlement of Canaan, a time marked by tribal warfare and the establishment of territorial boundaries. Her father, Caleb, was one of the two faithful spies (along with Joshua) who encouraged the Israelites to trust in God's promise to give them the land of Canaan (Numbers 13-14). As a reward for his faithfulness, Caleb was granted the region of Hebron as his inheritance. Marriage to Othniel: Acsah's marriage to Othniel, her cousin, is significant in the biblical narrative. Othniel later becomes the first judge of Israel (Judges 3:9-11), indicating that Acsah was married to a man of valor and leadership. The marriage was arranged as a reward for Othniel's military success in capturing Kiriath-sepher, demonstrating the common practice of using marriage alliances to secure political and military objectives. Acsah's Request: Acsah's request for additional land with water resources highlights her practical wisdom and assertiveness. The Negev, where her initial land was located, is a dry region, and the acquisition of water sources was crucial for survival and prosperity. Her ability to negotiate with her father for the upper and lower springs reflects her understanding of the land's needs and her role in ensuring the well-being of her household. Theological Significance: Acsah's account, though brief, underscores themes of faith, inheritance, and the importance of resourcefulness. Her actions demonstrate a proactive approach to securing God's blessings, aligning with the broader biblical narrative of God's provision for His people. Her life also illustrates the role of women in biblical times, who, despite societal constraints, could exert influence and make significant contributions to their families and communities. Legacy: Acsah's legacy is preserved through her connection to Caleb and Othniel, both significant figures in Israel's history. Her account serves as an example of faith in action, encouraging believers to seek God's blessings with boldness and wisdom. Concordance Acsah (5 Occurrences)Joshua 15:16 Joshua 15:17 Judges 1:12 Judges 1:13 1 Chronicles 2:49 Thesaurus Acsah (5 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Acsah (5 Occurrences). Joshua 15:16 Caleb said, "He who strikes Kiriath Sepher, and takes it, to him will ... /a/acsah.htm - 7k Acrostic (2 Occurrences) Acshaph (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |