☀️
← Back to Lexicon
H277 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אֲחִי
Achi
Proper noun, masculine
Achi (my brother)

Definition

The Hebrew proper name Achi (אֲחִי) simply means "my brother", from the common noun ach (H251, brother). It appears as a personal name in 1 Chronicles. This type of kinship-as-name reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of expressing covenant bonds and social solidarity through naming.

Usage & Theological Significance

The Hebrew concept of brotherhood (ach) carries enormous theological and social weight. Brothers were bound by the deepest ties of covenant loyalty — to love, protect, redeem, and stand with one another (Proverbs 17:17; 18:24). The prophets invoke this bond when rebuking Israel for oppressing the poor: the destitute Israelite was still your ach, your brother (Deuteronomy 15:7). Jesus supremely redefines brotherhood: "Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister" (Matthew 12:50). Spiritual kinship through obedience to God creates a brotherhood deeper than biology.

Key Bible Verses

1 Chronicles 5:15 Ahi son of Abdiel, the son of Guni, was head of their family.
1 Chronicles 7:34 The sons of Shomer: Ahi, Rohgah, Hubbah and Aram.
Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
Proverbs 18:24 One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Matthew 12:50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️