### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻûwsh**, represented by `{{H5789}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to hasten; assemble self**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, making its single appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{H5789}}` is found in [[Joel 3:11]], where it is used as a command to **assemble**. The verse issues a call: "**Assemble** yourselves, and come, all ye heathen, and gather yourselves together round about." This summons is directed at the **heathen** `{{H1471}}` to **gather themselves together** `{{H6908}}` from all sides. The purpose of this assembly is immediately followed by a plea for divine intervention: "thither cause thy mighty ones to **come down** `{{H5181}}`, O **LORD** `{{H3068}}`." The context frames the act of assembling as a prelude to a significant confrontation orchestrated by the LORD.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of this assembly:
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (heathen, nation): This term defines the group being summoned. While it can refer to any **foreign nation**, as when God promises to make a great **nation** from Abraham [[Genesis 12:2]], here it designates the collective nations being gathered for a decisive event.
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats** (gather): Used in tandem with `ʻûwsh`, this root emphasizes the act of collection. The LORD often uses this action to **gather** His scattered people for restoration ([[Jeremiah 23:3]], [[Ezekiel 34:13]]). Its use in [[Joel 3:11]] for the nations provides a thematic contrast.
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (mighty): This word describes those whom the LORD will bring down to meet the assembled nations. The term is often used to describe God Himself as the **mighty** one [[Zephaniah 3:17]] or a **mighty** God [[Isaiah 9:6]], underscoring the divine power at play in this scene.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5789}}` is concentrated in its single, dramatic usage.
* **A Divine Summons for Judgment:** The call to **assemble** is not for blessing but for confrontation. It is a prophetic command for the **heathen** `{{H1471}}` to gather in one place, setting the stage for the arrival of the **LORD's** `{{H3068}}` **mighty ones** `{{H1368}}`.
* **Sovereignty Over Nations:** The passage demonstrates God's ultimate authority. Even the act of the nations gathering themselves is presented within the framework of a command from the LORD's prophet, showing divine control over their movements.
* **Gathering for Confrontation:** While the parallel term **gather** `{{H6908}}` is often associated with God's merciful restoration of His people [[Isaiah 40:11]], its use here in conjunction with `ʻûwsh` highlights a different purpose: a gathering for a decisive encounter with God's power.
### Summary
In summary, though found only once, `{{H5789}}` **ʻûwsh** carries significant thematic force. It signifies a unique and urgent call to **assemble**, not for counsel or worship, but for a divinely orchestrated confrontation. Its singular context in [[Joel 3:11]], surrounded by words of judgment and divine power, defines it as a term announcing a climactic moment in the LORD's interaction with the nations.
TRV