from קָרָא; something called out, i.e. a public meeting (the act, the persons, or the place); also a rehearsal; assembly, calling, convocation, reading.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miqrâʼ**, represented by `{{H4744}}`, comes from the root word for "to call out" `{{H7121}}` and refers to something that is called out, such as a public meeting, assembly, or convocation. It can also denote the act of calling, or even a reading or rehearsal. It appears **23 times** across **22 unique verses**, primarily outlining the sacred gatherings of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4744}}` is central to the laws governing Israel's worship. It is most frequently used in the phrase "holy **convocation**," which the LORD `{{H3068}}` establishes for His appointed feasts `{{H4150}}` [[Leviticus 23:2]]. These sacred assemblies were mandated for key moments in the religious calendar, including the seventh-day Sabbath [[Leviticus 23:3]], the Day of Atonement [[Leviticus 23:27]], and the Day of the Firstfruits [[Numbers 28:26]]. Beyond festivals, the term is used for the **calling** `{{H4744}}` of the assembly `{{H5712}}` with silver trumpets [[Numbers 10:2]]. A notable alternative usage appears in Nehemiah, where it is translated as the **reading** `{{H4744}}` of the law `{{H8451}}` of God `{{H430}}` to the people [[Nehemiah 8:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the concept of a sacred assembly:
* `{{H7121}}` **qârâʼ** (to call out to, proclaim, read): As the root of `miqrâʼ`, this verb establishes the foundational meaning. God commands that the feasts be **proclaimed** as holy convocations [[Leviticus 23:2]].
* `{{H4150}}` **môwʻêd** (an appointment, i.e. a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival): This word for appointed feasts is often used in parallel with `miqrâʼ`. The convocations are to be proclaimed in their **seasons** `{{H4150}}` [[Leviticus 23:4]].
* `{{H6944}}` **qôdesh** (a sacred place or thing; holiness): This term qualifies the vast majority of `miqrâʼ` occurrences. The gatherings are not merely public meetings but **holy** convocations, set apart for the LORD [[Leviticus 23:21]].
* `{{H6116}}` **ʻătsârâh** (an assembly, especially on a festival or holiday): This word is used alongside `miqrâʼ` to describe a **solemn assembly**, such as the one on the eighth day of the Feast of Tabernacles [[Leviticus 23:36]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4744}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of Israel's relationship with God.
* **Divine Command:** The convocations are not human inventions but are instituted by God `{{H3068}}` himself. He explicitly commands when and how these gatherings are to occur, establishing a rhythm of national worship ([[Leviticus 23:2]], [[Leviticus 23:24]]).
* **Corporate Sanctity:** The emphasis on a "holy **convocation**" underscores the importance of the community gathering as a set-apart people. Cessation from work `{{H4399}}` was a common requirement, marking the time as sacred ([[Leviticus 23:3]], [[Numbers 28:25]]).
* **Public Proclamation:** Stemming from its root "to call," `miqrâʼ` involves public declaration. This is seen in the blowing of trumpets `{{H2689}}` to call the assembly [[Numbers 10:2]] and the public **reading** `{{H4744}}` of God's law [[Nehemiah 8:8]], reinforcing that faith is a communal and declared reality.
* **God's Protective Presence:** In a prophetic context, God promises to **create** `{{H1254}}` a cloud `{{H6051}}` by day and a fire `{{H784}}` by night over the **assemblies** `{{H4744}}` of Mount Zion `{{H6726}}`, symbolizing His presence and defense `{{H2646}}` over His gathered people [[Isaiah 4:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4744}}` is a term that defines the structure and sanctity of Israel's communal life before God. It moves beyond a simple meeting to describe a divinely appointed gathering, a "holy **convocation**" set apart for worship, rest, and hearing the word of the LORD. From the weekly Sabbath to the annual feasts and the public reading of scripture, `miqrâʼ` represents the sacred assembly as a cornerstone of the covenant relationship between God and His people.
TRV