### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼôçeph**, represented by `{{H625}}`, denotes a **collection (of fruits)** or a **gathering**. Derived from the root word אָסַף `{{H622}}`, which means "to gather," this specific noun appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is tightly focused on the result of a harvest or collection process.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H625}}` is used both literally and metaphorically to describe the act of collecting. In Isaiah, it speaks of a coming time of trouble where "the **gathering** shall not come," signifying a failed harvest and divine judgment [[Isaiah 32:10]]. The prophet Micah uses the term to express his sorrow and the spiritual barrenness of his people, comparing himself to the emptiness that exists after the **gathering** of summer fruits [[Micah 7:1]]. In another context, it is used as a simile to describe how an enemy's spoil will be collected, "like the **gathering** of the caterpiller" [[Isaiah 33:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the agricultural and conceptual context of **ʼôçeph**:
* `{{H622}}` **ʼâçaph**: As the primitive root, this word means "to gather for any purpose." It has a much broader application than `{{H625}}`, referring to the gathering of people at death [[Genesis 25:8]], the assembly of saints [[Psalms 50:5]], and the bringing together of nations for battle [[Zechariah 14:2]].
* `{{H1210}}` **bâtsîyr**: This word for **vintage** or the grape crop is often used alongside `{{H625}}`. Its presence specifies the type of harvest, as seen in [[Micah 7:1]], which mentions both the grapegleanings of the **vintage** and the **gathering** of summer fruits.
* `{{H5955}}` **ʻôlêlâh**: Meaning **gleanings**, this term refers to what is left behind after the main harvest is complete. It appears with `{{H625}}` in [[Micah 7:1]] to emphasize the feeling of scarcity and that nothing of value, not even a cluster of grapes, remains.
### Theological Significance
Despite its infrequent use, the theological significance of `{{H625}}` is pointed and impactful.
* **Sign of Judgment:** The absence of the **gathering** is presented as a direct consequence of disobedience and a tangible sign of judgment. A failed harvest meant the withdrawal of divine blessing and provision [[Isaiah 32:10]].
* **Metaphor for Emptiness:** The word is used to create a powerful metaphor for spiritual desolation. The feeling of a completed or failed gathering, where nothing is left to collect, perfectly illustrates the prophet's despair over the state of his people [[Micah 7:1]].
* **Image of Inevitability:** When applied to the collection of spoil, the term evokes a sense of natural and thorough plunder, like a pest consuming a crop, highlighting the certainty of the enemy's ruin [[Isaiah 33:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H625}}` **ʼôçeph** is a precise term for a "gathering," specifically of an agricultural harvest. While appearing only three times, it is used to convey profound concepts. It functions as a literal measure of agricultural success or failure, and by extension, a symbol of divine blessing or judgment. Metaphorically, it serves to illustrate deep spiritual emptiness and the unstoppable nature of conquest, demonstrating how a simple agricultural word can articulate significant theological truths.
TRV