### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çalçillâh**, represented by `{{H5552}}`, is defined as a **basket**, derived from a root meaning a twig. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, making its singular context essential to its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5552}}` is in [[Jeremiah 6:9]], within a prophecy of judgment against Israel. The LORD{H3068} of hosts{H6635} commands, "They shall throughly{H5953} glean{H5953} the remnant{H7611} of Israel{H3478} as a vine{H1612}: turn back{H7725} thine hand{H3027} as a grapegatherer{H1219} into the **baskets**{H5552}." In this verse, the basket serves as the container for the remnant of Israel, which is being gathered as a consequence of divine judgment, much like the last grapes are gleaned from a vine.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5552}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:
* `{{H1219}}` **bâtsar**: Translated here as **grapegatherer**, this word's primary meaning is to clip off or gather grapes. It connects the action directly to the **baskets** which are being filled. Elsewhere, it can mean to be fenced or fortified ([[Jeremiah 15:20]], [[Deuteronomy 28:52]]).
* `{{H1612}}` **gephen**: This word for **vine** is used as the metaphor for Israel. The nation is the vine from which the remnant is gleaned and placed into the baskets [[Jeremiah 6:9]]. The vine is often a symbol of fruitfulness or the lack thereof ([[Joel 2:22]], [[Habakkuk 3:17]]).
* `{{H7611}}` **shᵉʼêrîyth**: This term for **remnant** or a residual portion is what is being gathered. The baskets `{{H5552}}` are the instruments used in the process of collecting this final, surviving portion of the people [[Jeremiah 6:9]].
* `{{H5953}}` **ʻâlal**: This root is used twice to emphasize that the remnant will be **throughly gleaned**. Its meaning, to effect thoroughly or glean, underscores the meticulous nature of the judgment that involves filling the baskets. It can also mean to abuse or mock [[1 Samuel 31:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5552}}` is entirely derived from its role in the prophecy of [[Jeremiah 6:9]].
* **Vessel of Judgment:** The **basket** is not used for a celebratory harvest but as a tool in a divine judgment. It is the destination for the remnant{H7611} of Israel{H3478} as they are systematically gathered.
* **Symbol of Thoroughness:** The command to "turn back thine hand as a grapegatherer into the **baskets**" [[Jeremiah 6:9]] illustrates the comprehensive and inescapable nature of God's action. The gleaning is to be so complete that the hand must return to the task until the baskets are filled.
* **Execution of Divine Will:** The use of the basket occurs because the LORD{H3068} of hosts{H6635} has spoken{H559} [[Jeremiah 6:9]]. This shows that the gathering is not a chance occurrence but the direct fulfillment of a divine command concerning the people of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, **çalçillâh** `{{H5552}}` is a word whose entire biblical identity is locked into a single, powerful image. Appearing only in [[Jeremiah 6:9]], it is not a simple container but a symbol of divine judgment. It functions as the receptacle for the remnant of Israel, which is being thoroughly gleaned like the last grapes from a vine. The context reveals that this action is a direct and meticulous execution of the will of the LORD of hosts.
TRV