כָּמַס

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word kâmaç, represented by H3647, is a primitive root meaning to store away, i.e. (figuratively) in the memory; lay up in store. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use, however, offers a focused glimpse into the concept of divine preservation and safekeeping.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H3647 is in Deuteronomy 32:34, where God poses a rhetorical question: "Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up among my treasures?" In this context, the word conveys a deliberate act of setting something aside in a secure place. The action of "laying up in store" is directly associated with God's personal keeping, suggesting that what is stored is held in divine memory or reserved for a future purpose, protected and kept within His own treasury.

Related Words & Concepts

The meaning of H3647 is further illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only biblical context:

• H2856 châtham (to close up; especially to seal): This root word for sealing emphasizes security and preservation. It is used in contexts of sealing a book of prophecy until an appointed time Daniel 12:4, securing a testimony Isaiah 8:16, or closing off a fountain to keep it pure Song of Solomon 4:12.
• H214 ʼôwtsâr (a depository; store-house, treasure-house): This term signifies a place of storage for valuable things. Scripture refers to God's "good treasure" from which He brings rain Deuteronomy 28:12, the storehouse for tithes Malachi 3:10, and even intangible things of great worth, such as when the fear of the LORD is called a "treasure" Isaiah 33:6.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of H3647 is derived entirely from its powerful context in Deuteronomy 32:34.

• Divine Memory and Reservation: The act of "laying up in store" points to God's perfect memory and His sovereign control over events. It implies that certain matters are kept in reserve by God, hidden and protected until He chooses to reveal or act upon them.
• Security and Purpose: Paired with "sealed up" H2856, the word suggests that what God stores is not merely set aside but is actively protected and secured for a specific future purpose, inaccessible until the appointed time.
• Inherent Value: The placement of this stored item "among my treasures" H214 signifies its immense value in God's eyes. Just as one protects their most precious possessions, God safeguards what He has laid up in store.

Summary

In summary, while H3647 appears only once, its meaning is clear and profound. It describes a divine act of storing something away, securing it as a valuable treasure. Its use in scripture highlights God's sovereignty, His perfect memory, and His purposeful preservation of things held in reserve. The word illustrates how even the rarest of biblical terms can provide significant insight into the nature and actions of God.