Aharah is a minor biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. He is notable primarily for his placement within this lineage and the multiple variant names scholars associate with him in other passages of scripture.
His entire mention in the King James Version (KJV) is contained in a single verse within the Book of Chronicles:
“Now Benjamin begat Bela his firstborn, Ashbel the second, and Aharah the third,” (1 Chronicles 8:1, KJV)
Key Facts on Aharah
- Family Role: Aharah is listed as the third son of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob (Israel) and Rachel.
- Genealogical Significance: He is part of a list of five sons of Benjamin mentioned in this chapter of the Chronicles, whose purpose is to record the heads of the great families and tribes of Israel. The inclusion of his name validates his line as a familial division within the tribe of Benjamin.
- The Name Variants: Due to inconsistencies in biblical name records across different books—often attributed to copying variations or different titles used for the same person—scholars widely believe that Aharah is the same individual referred to by other names in other genealogies of Benjamin. These variants include:
- Ehi (Genesis 46:21)
- Ahiram (Numbers 26:38)
- Aher (1 Chronicles 7:12)
While the single mention of Aharah in the KJV provides no details about his life, character, or deeds, his presence in the Chronicles confirms his role as a foundational patriarch in the lineage of Benjamin. Genealogies such as this were critically important to the Israelites for maintaining tribal identity, land ownership, and priestly roles.