### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼălummâh**, represented by `{{H485}}`, means **sheaf**. Derived from a root meaning "to bind," it refers to something bound together, like harvested grain. Though it appears only **5 times** across **2 verses**, it serves as a powerful symbol of both agricultural harvest and prophetic destiny.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H485}}` illustrates a journey from a state of lowliness to one of exaltation. In Joseph's dream, it is used to represent people and their future status. Joseph's **sheaf** `{{H485}}` arose and stood upright, while his brothers' **sheaves** `{{H485}}` gathered around and made obeisance to it, foreshadowing his future authority [[Genesis 37:7]]. The word is also used in the Psalms to depict the joyful outcome of sorrowful labor, where the sower who goes out weeping will return with rejoicing, bringing his **sheaves** `{{H485}}` with him [[Psalms 126:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the meaning of **ʼălummâh**:
* `{{H481}}` **'âlam** (bind): This primitive root, meaning "to tie fast," is the direct source of `ʼălummâh`. Its use in [[Genesis 37:7]], "we were **binding** sheaves," explicitly connects the action of binding to the creation of a sheaf.
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed): This term represents the beginning of the process that culminates in the sheaf. The promise of reaping sheaves is tied to the initial act of sowing **seed**, often in difficult circumstances [[Psalms 126:6]].
* `{{H6965}}` **qûwm** (to rise): This verb is used to describe the action of Joseph's sheaf, which "arose" in his dream. It connects the **sheaf** `{{H485}}` to themes of being established, raised up, and having one's position confirmed [[Genesis 37:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H485}}` lies in its symbolic representation of divine promises fulfilled.
* **From Weeping to Rejoicing:** The sheaf is the tangible evidence of joy after a season of sorrow. It embodies the principle that sowing in tears will lead to a harvest of rejoicing, a theme of hope and restoration [[Psalms 126:6]].
* **Prophetic Exaltation:** In Genesis, the sheaf is a prophetic symbol of a person's God-ordained destiny. The rising of one sheaf and the bowing of others is a clear picture of future leadership and the reversal of circumstances [[Genesis 37:7]].
* **Fruit of Faithful Labor:** The image of bringing in sheaves underscores the biblical principle of sowing and reaping. It serves as a guarantee that faithful labor, even when accompanied by hardship, will ultimately produce a valuable and joyful result.
### Summary
In summary, **ʼălummâh** `{{H485}}` is a rich biblical symbol. While literally a bundle of harvested grain, it functions metaphorically to represent the joyful reward for sorrowful labor and the fulfillment of a divinely appointed destiny. Through the image of the **sheaf**, scripture illustrates how God can elevate the humble and turn weeping into a triumphant harvest.
TRV