### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻêder**, represented by `{{H5739}}`, refers to an **arrangement, i.e. muster (of animals)**, and is translated as **drove, flock, or herd**. It appears **38 times** across **34 unique verses** in the Bible. The word signifies a group of animals, typically sheep or goats, organized together under care or for a specific purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H5739}}` is used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it describes groups of livestock, as when Jacob organized his animals into separate **droves** [[Genesis 32:16]] or when three **flocks** of sheep were seen by a well [[Genesis 29:2]]. The word is also used in poetic descriptions, where a lover's hair is compared to a **flock** of goats [[Song of Solomon 4:1]] and teeth to a **flock** of sheep [[Song of Solomon 4:2]]. Figuratively, it represents the people of God. The nation of Judah is called "the LORD'S **flock**" [[Jeremiah 13:17]], and God promises to gather and keep scattered Israel as a shepherd does his **flock** [[Jeremiah 31:10]]. In Micah, Zion is even called the "tower of the **flock**" [[Micah 4:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of a flock:
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (to tend a flock): This root word for "shepherd" or "to feed" is fundamentally linked to `{{H5739}}`. It describes the action of caring for the flock, as seen in the promise that God will "feed his **flock** like a shepherd" [[Isaiah 40:11]].
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (a collective name for a flock): Often appearing alongside `{{H5739}}`, this term refers to a collection of sheep or goats. The two words are used together to emphasize the fullness of one's livestock, as in the counsel to "look well to thy herds{H5739}" and be diligent with "thy flocks{H6629}" [[Proverbs 27:23]].
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats** (to gather, collect): This verb is used to describe the divine action of assembling the flock of Israel. God promises that he who scattered his people will also **gather** them, just as a shepherd keeps his flock [[Jeremiah 31:10]].
* `{{H7716}}` **seh** (a member of a flock): This word denotes an individual sheep or goat within the larger group. Its relationship to `{{H5739}}` is illustrated in David's account of a lion taking a **lamb** from the flock [[1 Samuel 17:34]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H5739}}` carries significant theological weight, primarily through the shepherd-flock metaphor.
* **Divine Shepherding and Care:** The most prominent theme is God's role as the Shepherd of His people, His **flock**. He seeks out the scattered [[Ezekiel 34:12]], feeds them [[Isaiah 40:11]], and guides them through the wilderness like a **flock** [[Psalms 78:52]]. This imagery portrays God's intimate care and sovereign guidance.
* **The People of God:** Israel is frequently identified as the Lord's **flock**. This identity highlights their dependence on God and their special relationship with Him. Their captivity is described as the "LORD'S **flock**" being carried away [[Jeremiah 13:17]], and their restoration is envisioned as God visiting "his **flock** the house of Judah" [[Zechariah 10:3]].
* **Judgment and Vulnerability:** The flock is also depicted as vulnerable, subject to danger and judgment. Unjust men "violently take away **flocks**" [[Job 24:2]], and the remnant of Jacob is pictured as a lion among the "flocks of sheep" [[Micah 5:8]]. The Lord's anger is kindled against corrupt shepherds who fail to care for the flock [[Zechariah 10:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5739}}` **ʻêder** extends far beyond its simple definition of a herd or flock. It functions as a foundational concept in scripture, moving from the literal management of livestock in narratives like Genesis to the rich poetic imagery in the Song of Solomon. Most importantly, it provides a powerful theological metaphor for the relationship between God and His people, illustrating divine care, guidance, judgment, and the collective identity of the community of faith as a **flock** under the watch of a divine Shepherd.
TRV