Ahira אֲחִירַע
Leader of the tribe of Naphtali during the Exodus
Biography
Ahira, the son of Enan, was a prominent leader of the tribe of Naphtali during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their subsequent journey through the wilderness. He was appointed by God as the head of his tribe and played a significant role in the organization and leadership of the Israelite community. (Num.1.15)
In the arrangement of the Israelite camp, Ahira and the tribe of Naphtali were positioned on the north side of the tabernacle, along with the tribes of Dan and Asher. (Num.2.29).
As a tribal leader, Ahira was responsible for presenting the offerings of the tribe of Naphtali during the dedication of the altar. He brought his offering on the twelfth day, which included various silver and gold utensils, as well as animals for sacrifices. (Num.7.78,83)
When the Israelites set out from Mount Sinai, Ahira and the tribe of Naphtali were part of the rearguard, marching last among the tribal divisions. (Num.10.27)
Throughout the wilderness journey, Ahira would have played a crucial role in leading his tribe, ensuring their obedience to God's commands, and representing their interests before Moses and the other tribal leaders. However, no further specific details about his life or leadership are recorded in the biblical text.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical bookNumbers 5 verses
- Numbers 1:15
"Of Naphtali: Ahira the son of Enan.”"
- Numbers 2:29
"“The tribe of Naphtali: the prince of the children of Naphtali shall be Ahira the son of Enan."
- Numbers 7:78
"On the twelfth day Ahira the son of Enan, prince of the children of Naphtali,"
- Numbers 7:83
"and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old. This was the offering of Ahira the son of Enan."
- Numbers 10:27
"Ahira the son of Enan was over the army of the tribe of the children of Naphtali."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Strong's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | אֲחִירַע | H0299 |
Ahira
he census (Nu 1:15). He was the hereditary "prince" of the tribe; he made the tribal offering (Nu 2:29; 7:78; compare Nu 7:83), and was commander of the tribal host when on the march (Nu 10:27).
a-hi'-ram ('achiram, "exalted brother," or "my brother is exalted"):
A son of Benjamin. Mentioned third of the five in Nu 26:38,39. In <re