### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâthâr**, represented by `{{H6282}}`, carries a meaning related to worship and physical volume. It is defined as **incense** (as increasing to a volume of smoke), and by extension, **a worshipper**, **suppliant**, or **thick**. Appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its specific usage offers insight into the nature of religious devotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H6282}}` is used in two different ways. In [[Zephaniah 3:10]], it is translated as "**suppliants**," referring to the dispersed people of God who will be brought from beyond Ethiopia to present an offering. This usage identifies the worshippers themselves. In contrast, [[Ezekiel 8:11]] uses the word as "**thick**" to describe the volume of a **cloud** of **incense** that went up from the censers held by the elders of Israel who were engaging in idolatry.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of `{{H6282}}`:
* `{{H2986}}` **yâbal** (bring): This verb, meaning to **bring** or **lead forth**, describes the action of the "**suppliants**" in [[Zephaniah 3:10]], highlighting their purposeful return to God with an offering.
* `{{H7004}}` **qᵉṭôreth** (incense): This word for **incense** or **perfume** is the substance that produces the "**thick**" `{{H6282}}` cloud in [[Ezekiel 8:11]], directly linking `{{H6282}}` to the tangible act of offering.
* `{{H6051}}` **ʻânân** (cloud): Defined as a **cloud**, this word is modified by `{{H6282}}` in [[Ezekiel 8:11]], where together they form the image of a "thick cloud," emphasizing the sheer amount of incense being offered.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6282}}` is found in its contrasting applications. It demonstrates how a sign of devotion can be either righteous or profane.
* **Promise of Restored Worship:** In Zephaniah, the "**suppliants**" `{{H6282}}` are part of a prophecy of restoration. God's dispersed people will be gathered and will once again bring a proper **offering** `{{H4503}}` to Him [[Zephaniah 3:10]].
* **Evidence of Idolatry:** In Ezekiel's vision, the "**thick**" `{{H6282}}` cloud is a sign of deep-seated sin. The great volume of **incense** `{{H7004}}` symbolizes the extensive idolatry being practiced by the **ancients** `{{H2205}}` of the **house** `{{H1004}}` of **Israel** `{{H3478}}` [[Ezekiel 8:11]].
* **The Nature of Devotion:** The word illustrates that a great volume of worship—whether from a person or an offering—is significant. Its value is determined entirely by whether it is directed toward God or toward idols.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6282}}` is a rare but potent term that encapsulates the physical and personal aspects of worship. Its dual use as both "**suppliant**" and "**thick**" creates a powerful theological comparison. It contrasts the future hope of a restored people faithfully bringing offerings with the present reality of leaders engaging in profound idolatry, showing that the nature of devotion is defined by its object.
TRV