### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yiqqâhâh**, represented by `{{H3349}}`, signifies **obedience** or the **gathering** of a people. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This rare term is used in two distinct but related senses: the willing assembly of people toward a central figure of authority, and the personal obedience owed to one's parents.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H3349}}` is applied in both prophetic and wisdom contexts. In Jacob's prophecy over his sons, it describes a future event where a ruler will emerge from the line of Judah, and to this figure "shall the **gathering** of the people be" [[Genesis 49:10]]. This use points to a large-scale, voluntary allegiance. In contrast, the book of Proverbs uses the word to denote filial duty, warning of the dire fate awaiting the eye that "despiseth to **obey** his mother" [[Proverbs 30:17]], framing obedience as a core moral principle within the family.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts of authority and relationship in which `{{H3349}}` is found:
* `{{H7626}}` **shêbeṭ** (sceptre): This word for a rod or sceptre establishes the theme of royal authority in the prophecy where the "gathering" is mentioned, signifying the rule that will not depart from Judah [[Genesis 49:10]].
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): As the tribe from which the ruler will come, Judah is the focal point for the promised "gathering" of the people [[Genesis 49:10]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This word for father is used in parallel with mother to establish the parental authority that is mocked in Proverbs, highlighting the familial context for "obedience" [[Proverbs 30:17]].
* `{{H517}}` **ʼêm** (mother): As the direct object of the required "obedience" in [[Proverbs 30:17]], this term underscores the foundational importance of honoring one's mother.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3349}}` is expressed through its dual application:
* **Prophetic Allegiance:** The word is central to a key prophecy regarding kingship in Israel. The "gathering" of the people is not a forced subjugation but a willing assembly to a rightful lawgiver from Judah, pointing toward a future expectation of a leader [[Genesis 49:10]].
* **Foundational Honor:** By linking `{{H3349}}` to the act of obeying one's mother `{{H517}}`, scripture grounds the principle of obedience in the family unit. The harsh consequence described for disobedience emphasizes that respect for parental authority is a non-negotiable tenet of wisdom [[Proverbs 30:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3349}}` is a concise term that encompasses both a grand, national "gathering" and personal, familial "obedience." It connects the prophecy of a people uniting under a future king from Judah with the fundamental moral duty of a child to honor their parents. Though rare, **yiqqâhâh** powerfully illustrates how biblical theology links large-scale allegiance to the foundational principles of respect and honor established in the home.
TRV