(The Wise Daughter of Caleb)
Achsah (sometimes spelled Acsah) is a notable female figure in the Old Testament, recorded in the books of Joshua, Judges, and Chronicles. She is best known as the daughter of Caleb, the faithful leader from the tribe of Judah, and for her wise and assertive request for a substantial dowry.
A Prize for the Conqueror
Achsah’s story begins during the conquest and division of the Promised Land. Her father, Caleb, a man of great faith and courage, made a solemn vow concerning the fortified, unconquered city of Kirjath-sepher (also called Debir).
“And Caleb said, He that smiteth Kirjathsepher, and taketh it, to him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.” (Joshua 15:16, KJV)
The challenge was met by Othniel, the son of Kenaz and Caleb’s younger brother. Othniel captured the city and, as promised, received Achsah to be his wife. This marriage was significant, as Othniel later became the first of the Judges of Israel, a man upon whom “the Spirit of the LORD came” (Judges 3:9-10).
The Bold Request for Springs of Water
Achsah is a remarkable example of an assertive and practical woman who understood the true value of the land in their arid region. After receiving a portion of land in the Negev (South country) from her father, she realized that without a water source, the land would be difficult to cultivate and sustain a family.
The account of her request demonstrates both her boldness and her respectful relationship with her father:
“And it came to pass, as she came unto him, that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted off her ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wouldest thou? Who answered, Give me a blessing; for thou hast given me a south land; give me also springs of water. And he gave her the upper springs, and the nether springs.” (Joshua 15:18-19, KJV)
Achsah did not merely settle for the land she was initially given. She correctly identified the essential resource—water—that would transform a dry inheritance into a fertile one. Her request for a “blessing” (a substantial gift) resulted in her receiving not one, but both the “upper springs, and the nether springs,” securing an abundant water supply for her household.
Achsah’s narrative is a short but powerful interlude in the biblical record, highlighting the importance of wise foresight and the generosity of her father, Caleb.