### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâk**, represented by `{{H5519}}`, denotes a **multitude** or a crowd. Appearing only **1 times** in **1 unique verses**, its meaning is derived from the idea of a "thicket of men," implying a dense gathering. Its singular use provides a specific and vivid picture of a collective body of people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H5519}}` is used by the psalmist to describe a cherished memory of communal worship. The author recalls when "I had gone with the **multitude**" [[Psalms 42:4]]. This gathering was not a random crowd but a procession moving toward a sacred destination, "the house of God" [[Psalms 42:4]]. The context is one of deep emotion, as the psalmist remembers this experience and pours out his soul.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its only context in [[Psalms 42:4]] help to clarify its meaning:
* `{{H1995}}` **hâmôwn** (a noise, tumult, crowd... multitude): This word appears in the same verse, describing the "multitude that kept holyday," reinforcing the image of a large, celebratory assembly [[Psalms 42:4]].
* `{{H2287}}` **châgag** (to observe a festival... reel to and fro): This verb describes the action of the crowd, which "kept holyday," indicating that the gathering was a sacred procession or festival observance [[Psalms 42:4]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house... temple): This noun identifies the destination of the procession as "the house of God," grounding the gathering in a specific place of worship [[Psalms 42:4]].
* `{{H7440}}` **rinnâh** (a creaking (or shrill sound), i.e. shout (of joy or grief)): The multitude was accompanied by "the voice of joy," connecting the crowd with audible, communal celebration [[Psalms 42:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5519}}` is concentrated in its powerful association with corporate worship.
* **Communal Worship:** The word is tied directly to the experience of approaching God as part of a collective. The psalmist remembers going "with the multitude...to the house of God," underscoring the spiritual significance of a unified body of believers [[Psalms 42:4]].
* **Memory and Praise:** The memory of being with the **multitude** is what prompts the psalmist to "pour out my soul" [[Psalms 42:4]]. The recollection is defined by sounds of "joy and praise," showing how memories of shared worship can be a source of profound spiritual feeling.
* **Sacred Journey:** Paired with the phrase "kept holyday" `{{H2287}}`, the **multitude** is framed not just as a crowd but as a purposeful assembly on a sacred journey, moving together toward God's presence [[Psalms 42:4]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H5519}}` is a rare term, its single use in scripture is highly specific and meaningful. It is more than just a word for a crowd; it encapsulates the concept of a worshiping community engaged in a joyful, sacred procession to the house of God. It powerfully illustrates how the memory of corporate worship can deeply affect the soul.
TRV