Comment: Achan, the son of Carmi, was an Israelite of the tribe of Judah, who, when Jericho was destroyed, secretly took a portion of the spoil for himself. Achan was selfish, and his covetous mind made him unable to resist the urge to take for himself that which was not his. For his covetousness, Achan and his household (who obviously concealed Achan’s sin) were stoned to death and their property burnt. (Joshua 7:16-26) From this we see how covetousness brings calamity, not only to oneself but also to people around the covetous person, who aid and abet such ones. And worse, it can bring collective destruction upon a people, if not checked. (Joshua 7:4-13) Scriptures say: “Woe to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house, that he may set his nest on high… Thou hast consulted shame to thy house by cutting off many people, and hast sinned against thy soul.” – Habakkuk 2:9, 10. See also Proverbs 15:27.