### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼăçêphâh**, represented by `{{H626}}`, is derived from the root word ʼâçaph `{{H622}}`, meaning to gather. It is an exceptionally rare term, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible. Its definition denotes a **collection of people** and is used idiomatically to mean **together**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H626}}` is in a prophecy of judgment found in [[Isaiah 24:22]]. The verse describes a future event where people will be gathered **together** in the same manner that prisoners are collected for confinement. The phrase "as prisoners are **gathered** in the pit" uses `{{H626}}` to emphasize the collective and forcible nature of this assembly, linking it directly to imprisonment and divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H626}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only biblical context:
* `{{H622}}` **ʼâçaph**: As the root verb, it means **to gather for any purpose**. It can describe being gathered in death [[Genesis 25:8]] or God gathering his saints [[Psalms 50:5]].
* `{{H616}}` **ʼaççîyr**: This word means a **prisoner** or captive. Its use in [[Isaiah 24:22]] specifies that the collection described by `{{H626}}` is one of captives. The term also appears in contexts of deliverance from bondage [[Isaiah 42:7]].
* `{{H953}}` **bôwr**: Meaning a **pit**, cistern, or dungeon, this word describes the destination of those being gathered. It is often used to symbolize a state of despair or imprisonment from which one needs rescue [[Psalms 40:2]].
* `{{H4525}}` **maçgêr**: Defined as **prison, smith**, this word signifies the place of confinement. While it can refer to a smith [[2 Kings 24:14]], in this context it clearly means **prison**, reinforcing the theme of judgment.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H626}}` is derived entirely from its singular, potent usage.
* **Collective Judgment:** The word's meaning of "a collection of people" is used to describe God's judgment not just on individuals, but on groups who will be brought **together** for accountability [[Isaiah 24:22]].
* **Inescapable Confinement:** Its direct association with words for **prisoner** `{{H616}}`, **pit** `{{H953}}`, and **prison** `{{H4525}}` creates a powerful image of finality. This gathering is for the purpose of being shut up and punished.
* **Sovereign Action:** The use of `{{H626}}` in [[Isaiah 24:22]] is a passive construction, but it occurs in a context of divine action. This implies that the gathering for judgment is a deliberate, sovereign act of God upon the unrighteous.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H626}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely defined by its singular context. While its root suggests a simple gathering, its application in scripture is exclusively tied to the theme of judgment. It powerfully illustrates how a group of people will be brought **together** like prisoners for confinement, highlighting the thorough and inescapable nature of divine reckoning as prophesied in Isaiah.
TRV