### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kânaç**, represented by `{{H3664}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **collect**, **enfold**, **gather (together)**, **heap up**, or **wrap self**. It appears **12 times** across **11 unique verses**, illustrating its use in contexts of both divine action and human activity, from assembling people to accumulating resources.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H3664}}` describes various forms of collection. It is used for the gathering of people, whether for a sacred fast as commanded by Esther [[Esther 4:16]], or by God Himself to restore the outcasts of Israel [[Psalms 147:2]] and bring them back from captivity [[Ezekiel 39:28]]. The term also applies to the accumulation of material things, such as when Solomon **gathered** silver and gold [[Ecclesiastes 2:8]] or when tithes were **gathered** for the Levites [[Nehemiah 12:44]]. In a different sense, it can mean to wrap oneself, as when a covering is too narrow to **wrap** oneself in [[Isaiah 28:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of gathering:
* `{{H622}}` **ʼâçaph** (to gather for any purpose): This is a close synonym used alongside `{{H3664}}` to describe the sinner's work to **gather** and **heap up** wealth that God ultimately gives to the righteous [[Ecclesiastes 2:26]].
* `{{H1760}}` **dâchâh** (to push down; ... outcast): This word identifies the subjects of God's redemptive gathering, as the Lord **gathereth together** the **outcasts** of Israel [[Psalms 147:2]].
* `{{H7993}}` **shâlak** (to throw out, down or away): This verb serves as a direct antonym in the well-known passage describing a time to **cast away** stones and a time to **gather** stones together [[Ecclesiastes 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3664}}` is demonstrated in its application to God's sovereign acts.
* **Divine Restoration:** A central theme is God's faithfulness to His people. He promises to **gather** them from captivity [[Ezekiel 39:28]] and to **gathereth together** the outcasts of Israel [[Psalms 147:2]], signifying national and spiritual restoration.
* **Sovereign Judgment:** The act of gathering is also an instrument of divine wrath. God warns that He will **gather** people into the fire of His anger to be judged [[Ezekiel 22:21]].
* **Creative Power:** The term highlights God's authority over the natural world, as He "gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap" [[Psalms 33:7]], demonstrating his role as Creator.
* **Sacred Assembly:** Humans are also called to **gather** for holy purposes, such as when the Jews assembled to fast and seek God's intervention [[Esther 4:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3664}}` is a dynamic word that signifies more than simple collection. It portrays the sovereign power of God to assemble His people for both redemption and judgment, to control the elements of creation, and to orchestrate the flow of resources. Whether referring to stones, wealth, or nations, **kânaç** illustrates a divine and human action of bringing together for a specific, often profound, purpose.
TRV