Topical Encyclopedia Ahi'ra, a biblical figure from the Old Testament, is recognized as a leader among the Israelites during their wilderness journey after the Exodus from Egypt. His name, Ahi'ra, is understood to mean "brother of evil" or "my brother is evil," though interpretations of Hebrew names can vary.Tribal Leadership: Ahi'ra was the son of Enan and served as the leader of the tribe of Naphtali. The tribe of Naphtali was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Ahi'ra's leadership role is documented in the Book of Numbers, where he is mentioned in the context of the organization and census of the tribes. Biblical References: Ahi'ra is first introduced in Numbers 1:15, where he is listed among the leaders chosen to assist Moses and Aaron in taking a census of the Israelite community: "from Naphtali, Ahi'ra son of Enan." This census was conducted to determine the number of men eligible for military service as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land. In Numbers 2:29, Ahi'ra is again mentioned in the arrangement of the camp: "The tribe of Naphtali will camp next to them. The leader of the Naphtalites is Ahi'ra son of Enan." The tribe of Naphtali was positioned on the north side of the tabernacle, alongside the tribes of Dan and Asher, forming part of the camp of Dan. Ahi'ra's role is further highlighted in Numbers 7:78-83, where he is listed among the leaders who brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. On the twelfth day of the dedication, Ahi'ra son of Enan presented his offering, which included a silver platter, a silver bowl, and a gold dish filled with incense, along with various animals for burnt offerings, sin offerings, and peace offerings. Significance: Ahi'ra's inclusion in these passages underscores the importance of tribal leadership and organization during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. His role as a leader of Naphtali highlights the collective responsibility of the tribal heads in maintaining order and facilitating worship among the people of Israel. The mention of Ahi'ra in the context of offerings for the dedication of the altar also reflects the communal and religious life of the Israelites, emphasizing the significance of worship and sacrifice in their covenant relationship with God. Historical and Theological Context: From a historical perspective, Ahi'ra's leadership during the wilderness period is part of the broader narrative of the Israelites' transition from a nomadic existence to a settled life in the Promised Land. Theologically, his role as a tribal leader illustrates the divinely ordained structure of the Israelite community, with each tribe playing a distinct part in the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. Ahi'ra's account, though brief, is a testament to the faithfulness and obedience required of the leaders of Israel as they guided their people according to God's commands. His contributions, along with those of other tribal leaders, were integral to the spiritual and communal life of the nation during a formative period in its history. Concordance Ahi'ra (5 Occurrences)Numbers 1:15 Numbers 2:29 Numbers 7:78 Numbers 7:83 Numbers 10:27 Thesaurus Ahi'ra (5 Occurrences)Ahi'ra. Ahira, Ahi'ra. Ahiram . Multi-Version Concordance Ahi'ra (5 Occurrences). Numbers 1:15 Of Naphtali, Ahira the son of Enan.' (See RSV). ... /a/ahi'ra.htm - 7k Ahira (5 Occurrences) Ahiram (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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