Sanhedrin 44B: Achan, Zimri, Achar?

I've been studying the daf since Sotah. I am confused by the gemara in Sanhedrin 44b discussing Achan being Zimri. They cross-reference 1 Chronicles, 2:6, but seem to ignore that it also mentions Achar, the one who trangressed the ban. Can you clarify this for me? Todah rabah.

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

In the book of Joshua, we are told that Achan stole a piece of gold, some silver, and a "beautiful Babylonian garment" from Jericho which was violation of Joshua's instruction "all the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are holy to G-d” and should not be taken for personal use. (6:19).

As a result of Achan’s act, the Jewish people were punishment and did not conquer Ai on the first attempt and thirty-six Jew were killed in battle. (7:5). Achan was ultimately stoned for his sin along with his children and livestock.

There are other interpretations amongst our sages as to other sins that Achan committed, as well, such as Shabbat desecration and incest. He did eventually confess and repent his sins which is credited from saving him from eternal Gehinnom.

Regarding your question, allow me to explain:

Indeed, the Gemara asks the question of why in the book of Chronicles he is called Zimri, yet in the book of Josha he is called Achan.

Two possible answers are given to this seeming contradiction.

One answer is that his name really is Achan but he is called Zimri in Chronicles because he acted like Zimri.

Another answer is that his name really was Zimri but he is referred to as Achan “because he caused the sins of Yisrael to be visited upon them like an Achna (snake).”

On a related note, he was a descendant of the first biblical Zimri from the tribe of Judah, as well.

Achar and Achan are synonymous for the same person.