Ahisamach אֲחִיסָמָךְ
Father of Oholiab, a skilled artisan for the tabernacle
Who is Ahisamach in the Bible?
Ahisamach was a member of the tribe of Dan whose primary biblical significance comes through his son, Oholiab, a skilled artisan chosen by God to help construct the tabernacle. When the Lord appointed craftsmen for the tabernacle project, He selected Bezalel from Judah and Oholiab from Dan to oversee the work, and Oholiab was filled with wisdom and understanding in all kinds of crafts, including work with gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood (Exodus 31:6, 35:34). Though Ahisamach himself is mentioned only briefly in Scripture (Exodus 38:23), his legacy reflects the importance of skilled workers from all tribes in fulfilling God's instructions for the tabernacle. The naming of Ahisamach alongside his son demonstrates the value God placed on craftsmanship and the contribution of families dedicated to His service during Israel's wilderness journey.
Biography
Ahisamach was a member of the tribe of Dan and is mentioned in the Bible as the father of Oholiab, a skilled artisan who played a significant role in the construction of the tabernacle.
When God instructed Moses to build the tabernacle, He appointed Bezalel from the tribe of Judah and Oholiab from the tribe of Dan to oversee the craftsmanship. (Exo.31.1-6) Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, was filled with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts, including designing and working with gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood. (Exo.35.34).
Together with Bezalel, Oholiab led the skilled artisans in creating the intricate components of the tabernacle, such as the ark of the testimony, the mercy seat, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altar of incense, and the altar of burnt offering. They also crafted the priestly garments and other items used in worship. (Exo.38.23)
Although Ahisamach himself is not described as participating in the tabernacle's construction, his mention as Oholiab's father highlights the family's giftedness and the important role they played in the building of the sacred structure.
Family
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentExodus 3 verses
- Exodus 31:6
"Moreover, I have selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, as his assistant. I have also given skill to all the craftsmen, that they may fashion all that I have commanded you:"
Study Exodus → - Exodus 35:34
"And the LORD has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others."
Study Exodus → - Exodus 38:23
"With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen."
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | אֲחִיסָמָךְ | Achisamak , an Israelite |