### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼêlem**, represented by `{{H482}}`, refers to a **congregation** and also carries the meaning of silence or mute justice. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific. The term's dual nature suggests an assembly that is either silent or failing in its duty to administer justice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H482}}` is in [[Psalms 58:1]], where David poses a sharp, rhetorical question: "Do ye indeed speak righteousness, O **congregation**? do ye judge uprightly, O ye sons of men?". In this context, the word is used to address a group, likely leaders or judges, who are failing to uphold justice. The term highlights a collective failure to speak `{{H1696}}` what is right `{{H6664}}` and to judge `{{H8199}}` with equity, directly linking the concept of a congregation to its judicial responsibility.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its sole context illuminate the meaning of `{{H482}}`:
* `{{H1696}}` **dâbar** (to speak): The verse questions if the congregation is truly using its ability to **speak** for righteousness, contrasting the expected vocal justice with the implied "mute justice" of **ʼêlem** [[Psalms 58:1]].
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge): This is the core function the congregation is failing to perform correctly. The question "do ye **judge** uprightly?" establishes that the purpose of this assembly is judicial [[Psalms 58:1]].
* `{{H4339}}` **mêyshâr** (equity): This defines the standard of judgment that is being neglected. The congregation is challenged to act with **equity**, highlighting their deviation from this divine principle [[Psalms 58:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H482}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, establishing key principles of justice.
* **Collective Accountability:** The word addresses a **congregation** as a single entity, emphasizing that communities and governing bodies, not just individuals, are held responsible before God for upholding righteousness [[Psalms 58:1]].
* **Silence as Injustice:** By linking **congregation** with "mute justice," the term implies that a failure to speak `{{H1696}}` out for righteousness is itself an act of injustice. Silence in the face of wrongdoing is a violation of the assembly's purpose.
* **The Divine Standard:** The challenge to the congregation to judge **uprightly** `{{H4339}}` underscores God's unwavering standard of equity. It shows that human systems of justice are expected to reflect God's perfect character.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H482}}` **ʼêlem**, while rare, offers a powerful and focused teaching. It is more than a label for an assembly; it is a term loaded with judicial and moral expectation. Its singular use in scripture serves as a timeless warning that any congregation or governing body that fails to speak righteousness and enact justice is, in essence, a silent and failed institution in the eyes of God.
TRV