from עָמַם; a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of Israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock; folk, men, nation, people.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻam**, represented by `{{H5971}}`, defines **a people** as a congregated unit. It appears **1862 times** across **1654 unique verses**, signifying its importance in the biblical text. While its base definition can refer to folk or men in general, it is specifically used to denote a tribe, particularly those of Israel, and can figuratively describe a flock or attendants.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5971}}` is used to establish the covenant relationship between God and Israel. God repeatedly refers to Israel as "my **people**" ([[Isaiah 40:1]], [[Jeremiah 31:33]]), a relationship based on His law and their obedience. This identity is so profound that Ruth, in joining Israel, declares "thy **people** shall be my **people**" [[Ruth 1:16]]. The term also describes the **people** in moments of crisis, such as when they feared the Egyptians at the Red Sea [[Exodus 14:13]] or when they were "destroyed for lack of knowledge" [[Hosea 4:6]]. Ultimately, the term points toward redemption, as God promises to call those who were "not my **people**" his **people** [[Hosea 2:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context to the meaning of a congregated people:
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (nation): Frequently used to describe a foreign nation or Gentiles, this word often stands in contrast to `{{H5971}}`. God's plan is for Israel to be a covenant of the **people** and a light to the **Gentiles** [[Isaiah 42:6]], and He warns of provoking His **people** to jealousy with a foolish **nation** [[Deuteronomy 32:21]].
* `{{H3816}}` **lᵉʼôm** (nation): This term, meaning a community or people, is used in parallel with `{{H5971}}` to describe a broader scope of peoples. For example, a blessing in Genesis states, "Let **people** `{{H5971}}` serve thee, and **nations** `{{H3816}}` bow down to thee" [[Genesis 27:29]].
* `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** (man): As a word for an individual or male person, it contrasts with the collective nature of `{{H5971}}`. In times of distress, the grief of every **man** `{{H376}}` contributes to the sorrow of the entire **people** `{{H5971}}` [[1 Samuel 30:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5971}}` is centered on God's relationship with His chosen community.
* **Covenant Identity:** To be God's **people** is to have a specific identity. They are called by His name [[2 Chronicles 7:14]] and chosen to be a "special `{{H5459}}` **people** `{{H5971}}` unto himself, above all **people** `{{H5971}}` that are upon the face `{{H6440}}` of the earth `{{H127}}`" [[Deuteronomy 7:6]]. This covenant relationship is foundational, with God promising, "I will be their God `{{H430}}`, and they shall be my **people**" [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
* **Divine Provision and Protection:** God makes promises of strength and peace to His **people** [[Psalms 29:11]]. He comforts them [[Isaiah 40:1]], provides for them in the wilderness [[Exodus 17:6]], and promises to gather and feed them [[Ezekiel 34:13]]. Ultimately, He is a refuge `{{H4268}}` for his **people** [[Psalms 62:8]].
* **Restoration and Hope:** Even when His **people** are disobedient and scattered, God promises restoration. He will make those who were "not my **people**" into His **people** [[Hosea 1:10]]. The promise of a future gathering to Shiloh [[Genesis 49:10]] and the establishment of a "root `{{H8328}}` of Jesse `{{H3448}}`" as an ensign `{{H5251}}` for the **people** provides a messianic hope [[Isaiah 11:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5971}}` is far more than a simple term for a group. It is a word that defines a collective identity bound by covenant to God. It encapsulates the relationship between the divine and the community, from their status as a "peculiar treasure `{{H5459}}`" [[Exodus 19:5]] to their moments of rebellion and need for redemption. Through **ʻam**, Scripture illustrates God's persistent plan to form, discipline, and ultimately save a **people** for Himself.
TRV