### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâçuph**, represented by `{{H624}}`, is a term derived from a root meaning to collect. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition is "collected (only in the plural), i.e. a collection of offerings); threshold, Asuppim," indicating its use to describe either a specific location or a storehouse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{H624}}` consistently refers to a specific, guarded location related to the temple or its gates. In Nehemiah, it is translated as **thresholds**, where individuals like Mattaniah `{{H4983}}`, Bakbukiah `{{H1229}}`, Obadiah `{{H5662}}`, and others were stationed as **porters** `{{H7778}}` **keeping** `{{H8104}}` the **ward** `{{H4929}}` at the **gates** `{{H8179}}` [[Nehemiah 12:25]]. The word also appears as a proper name, **Asuppim**, in 1 Chronicles. It is mentioned as the "**house** `{{H1004}}` of **Asuppim**" which was assigned to the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of Obed-edom `{{H5654}}`, and as a Levitical post where "two and two" men were stationed ([[1 Chronicles 26:15]], [[1 Chronicles 26:17]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of `{{H624}}`:
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This word for a **house** or **temple** is used directly in the phrase "the **house** of Asuppim," establishing it as a specific building or chamber [[1 Chronicles 26:15]].
* `{{H7778}}` **shôwʻêr** (porter): This term for a **doorkeeper** or **porter** identifies the individuals whose duty it was to guard the **thresholds** `{{H624}}`, linking the location to a specific role in temple service [[Nehemiah 12:25]].
* `{{H4929}}` **mishmâr** (ward): This word signifies a **guard**, **post**, or **watch**. Its use shows that the **thresholds** `{{H624}}` were not just an entrance but an official post that required a diligent **ward** to be kept [[Nehemiah 12:25]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H624}}` is tied to the administration and security of sacred space.
* **Order in Sacred Service:** The specific assignment of the "**house** `{{H1004}}` of **Asuppim**" to the family of Obed-edom `{{H5654}}` and the precise allotment of **Levites** `{{H3881}}` to that post highlights the divine order and detailed organization required for temple worship ([[1 Chronicles 26:15]], [[1 Chronicles 26:17]]).
* **Faithful Stewardship:** The location is explicitly linked to **porters** `{{H7778}}` who were "**keeping** `{{H8104}}` the **ward** `{{H4929}}`." This underscores the theological importance of faithful stewardship and the responsibility of guarding the holy places [[Nehemiah 12:25]].
* **Place of Collection:** The root meaning of "collected" and "a collection of offerings" implies that **Asuppim** functioned as a storehouse. This points to the practical systems established for gathering and managing provisions necessary for the temple's operation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H624}}` is a precise term that refers to a functional part of the temple complex, either as **thresholds** or the **house of Asuppim**. While its appearances are few, they provide valuable insight into the structured and orderly nature of Levitical duties. The word connects a physical location to the vital roles of stewardship, guarding, and collection that were essential to the life and worship of Israel.
TRV