But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel.
But the Israelites broke faith by taking things that were set apart for destruction. Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, from the tribe of Judah, took some of the forbidden items. Because of this, the LORD's anger burned against all the Israelites.
This verse tells us that one person's disobedience (Achan taking forbidden items from Jericho) brought God's anger upon the entire nation of Israel.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs right after Israel's victory at Jericho, where God had specifically commanded that all the spoils be either destroyed or dedicated to the Lord's treasury. The 'accursed things' refers to items from Jericho that were under God's ban and were not to be taken for personal use. Achan's secret disobedience would soon lead to Israel's shocking defeat at Ai.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.