Men of the Scripture: Achan

His name means “Troublemaker.”

He was the descendant of Zerah. He may not have been a bad man, but he may even have fed himself on dreams of what life would be like in the Promised Land, where he had built a life for his family.

His work: Achan, of Judah’s tribe, had joined the rest of Israel’s army, falling in the line behind the priests, who had marched before the ark. Being a troublemaker, he had rushed into the city of Jericho, had slaughtered the enemies of Israel and spared no one and even the animals were put into his sword.

His Sorrow: By disregarding God’s command, it had resulted in the loss of many lives, including his own family. But Achan had confessed, words rushing from his mouth, “It is true, I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. This is what I have done; When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath.”

His character: Achan’s greed for the spoils of war and his attempt to hide his sin had led to a situation that endangered Israel’s relationship with the Creator. He had brought trouble and judgment on his own people because he had disobeyed God’s command.

He was guilty, and he was stoned to death in the valley of Achor. He and all that belonged to him were then consumed by fire, and a heap of stones was raised over the ashes.

His Triumph: He had participated in the glorious victory over Jericho.

Key Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:1-3; Joshua 7:1-25

Promises:
“Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones” (Proverbs 3:7-8).

“Stand at the crossroads and look; ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls” (Jeremiah 6:16).

“Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever” (Deut. 5:29).

Reflection:
Achan’s story tells us that God is never fooled by such foolishness. His disobedience had produced a kind of foolishness in him. He had attempted to hide what he had done, burying stolen goods beneath his tent. In other words, he was actually hiding from the God, who made him.

Simple obedience and the cleansing power of God’s grace are the best defense against sin. When we fail to do the right thing, we should remind ourselves not to hide what we have done. Instead, we express our sorrow and ask for forgiveness from God.

God’s commandments are meant to bless us, not to enslave us. We give thanks to Him because He has not hidden His commands from us. In our daily prayer, we say Lord, we want to obey your commandments. Help us to fear You, love Your word, and act in a way that honors You. (Edgardo R. Sara | Kiblawan)